My Gym hosts programs, classes for children

A new fitness franchise that caters to children has opened in Spokane Valley.

My Gym Spokane opened its doors this week, offering free trial classes to those wanting to learn more about the center’s specialized 45- to 60-minute programming for children ages 6 weeks to 13 years.

The center offers structured, age-appropriate classes designed to help children develop physically, emotionally and cognitively

“Everybody can come in and schedule a free class,” says owner Maria LaSeur. LaSeur said her center offers My Gym core classes developed at the company’s California headquarters to enhance balance, agility, flexibility and strength in a fun and noncompetitive environment. Classes are set to music and include warm-up activities, gymnastics, and structured games and play on the vast array of foam tumbling forms.

Classes for older children include cardiovascular workouts and nutrition and health advice.

Nearly every inch of the brightly colored 2,400-square-foot room is filled with foam tumbling forms that are rearranged weekly. Activity centers also include slides, a trampoline, a climbing wall, and ropes suspended from the ceiling for toddler swings or hanging ladders.

LaSeur, a mother of three and former personal trainer, became familiar with My Gym while living in Nevada. She said she and her husband often traveled to visit family in the Inland Northwest and decided to relocate here. Her husband and business partner, Jeff, works from home.

“We love My Gym, and we love Spokane. It was a great fit.”

Cost to join My Gym Spokane begins with a $75 one-time, lifetime membership fee. Classes are ongoing and costs range from $50 to $60 every four weeks for the weekly scheduled class and includes the opportunity to drop in once a week during a scheduled free play hour. The center also offers Saturday and Sunday birthday party packages.