Fitness center renovations nearing completion

A recent renovation to the main weight room in the Bellamy Fitness Center resulted in more open space for free weights and other exercise equipment at Ellsworth Air Force Base, S.D., Feb. 25, 2014. The weight room was also re-painted and fitted with additional mirrors. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Anania Tekurio/Released)

Fitness center renovations nearing completion

David Davis, Dean Kurtz Construction foreman, applies sealant on a wall in the front office of the Bellamy Fitness Center at Ellsworth Air Force Base, S.D., Feb. 25, 2014. Renovations to the front office area include a security monitoring system, new floors and new desks. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Anania Tekurio/Released)

Fitness center renovations nearing completion

Several rooms and areas in the Bellamy Fitness Center have been renovated at Ellsworth Air Force Base, S.D., Feb. 25, 2014. Renovations to the fitness center have been made to meet safety and infrastructure requirements and to provide more space and lighting. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Anania Tekurio/Released)

Fitness center renovations nearing completion

Published March 7, 2014
By Staff Sgt. Christopher Coniglio
28th Force Support Squadron

ELLSWORTH AIR FORCE BASE, S.D. -- Gym patrons will soon be able to enjoy the newly - remodeled Bellamy Fitness Center as $1.2 million renovation project nears completion.

Renovations began November 2013 when the DoD provided funding to Ellsworth to upgrade the interior of the facility.

The new flooring, paint schemes and layout were funded in an effort to modernize the fitness center and provide patrons with a better workout experience.

Rick Ives, 28th Force Support Squadron BFC director, said that the layout maximizes the amount of machines customers can utilize in one session while the interior improvements provide a modern appeal.

"We are really happy to be able to offer these new improvements to the Airmen," Ives said. "It has been a long renovation process, but customers are really enjoying the new look and feel."

One area that was renovated was the lobby. The front desk was custom fitted with a new counter and includes slide out trays and interior space for computers, improving the work space for gym staff.

Senior Airman Jacqueline Disanto, 28th FSS BFC specialist, said the lobby improvements appeal to both staff and customers.

"The desk allows us to be more organized, while still looking professional to Airmen as they arrive at the fitness center," Disanto said.
Another completed project was the weight room - equipped with new mirrors, rubberized flooring and a new platform for the cardio equipment.

The new lower platform conceals wiring - minimizing tripping hazards - while the weight room's new rubberized flooring reduces damage to the floor.

Senior Airman Charles Wood, 28th Medical Operations Squadron flight medical administrator, said that the new layout opens the entire room and the modernized look makes him want to return to the gym every morning.

"Even if someone is on every machine, I feel like I can walk around and still not be in people's way," Wood said. "You never run the risk of getting in other weightlifter's way."

Ives added that the focus of the upgrade was to ensure the square footage in the fitness center is utilized efficiently - allowing for a more comfortable workout.

"The renovation has really given the fitness center the look it needs to serve the wing," Ives said. "We have only received positive feedback from customers."