Five Questions with Anytime Fitness

Name of business: , downtown

Management team: Owners Chelsea and Ricky Allison, Sales Manager Sharon Mikuliza

When did the business open? July 2009

How long have you lived in the area?

Chelsea grew up in Clearwater. Ricky has lived in the area for about nine years.

What do you love about living and working in Clearwater? 

"I love the fact that we're so close to the water," Chelsea says. "And by being here for so long, we've made a lot of friends who are like family."

She and Sharon agreed that working downtown is nice, especially now that the roadwork around Cleveland Street is finished.

What do you wish everyone who came into your shop knew about you?

"Gyms are not scary," Chelsea says. "They're a fun place to be, and it's a group community to be a part of."

The atmosphere in the gym isn't high pressure, both agreed.

"We don't want to force you to work out or join," Sharon says. "When people walk in the door, it's about educating them" about the gym and what the staff can offer them.

The staff makes a point of welcoming everyone who comes in and letting them proceed at their own pace, Sharon said.

"It's not just about business," she says. "Trust is a big thing. People will come in if they feel comfortable and trust you." 

Can you give us an example of a time when you went above and beyond to provide great customer service?

A member recently brought the staff flowers after Chelsea called to help her sort out a financial matter. 

"It's just about always doing what's right," Sharon says. "We try to do the best that we can."

The staff prides itself on providing personalized service, Sharon says. "Even though Anytime Fitness is a franchise, this is more like a mom-and-pop company," she says.