Former NFL player opens club featuring Life Fitness products

SCHILLER PARK, Ill. (Oct. 16, 2008) – Former NFL player Vince Walker spent two years training with the New York Giants and Tennessee Titans, but after moving home to Destin, Fla., he discovered how everyday exercisers could use the fitness expertise he was exposed to through football. Back in his hometown, Walker quickly saw that the area’s existing workout facilities were overcrowded and understaffed. Walker felt Destin residents were lacking a comfortable workout facility where people of all ages and abilities could exercise. That’s when he decided to open his own club, Destin Health and Fitness.

Walker’s goal was to create a facility that gave exercisers a modern, high-end feel without being intimidating. Destin’s population spans a variety of ages, from active older adults to professional athletes training in the off-season. Walker knew he needed to provide his members with cardio and strength equipment that was sophisticated, yet easy–to-use. That’s when a former football coach recommended Life Fitness Hammer Strength.

Walker connected with his local Life Fitness representative who showed him equipment that offered functional fitness for well-trained athletes, yet was simple enough for the everyday exerciser to enjoy. The Life Fitness team developed a comprehensive facility layout for Walker’s diverse members and provided guidance as he installed a full line of Life Fitness Signature Series strength, Hammer Strength, Cable Motion equipment along with treadmills, elliptical cross-trainers and Lifecycle® Exercise Bikes.

“The Life Fitness team was able to provide me with equipment and solutions functional for all my members, from retirees to fine-tuned athletes,” Walker said. “They were a true partner.”

Walker added that the facility exceeded its membership goal for the first six months of operation, and already has plans to expand his 13,000-square-foot facility with an additional 4,500 square feet for cardio equipment.

“As a former professional athlete, Vince realized the importance of fitness for people at all levels and abilities,” said John Stransky, president of Life Fitness. “We hope our equipment gives Destin residents the tools to achieve their fitness goals to live healthier, longer lives.”

About Life Fitness
Life Fitness, a division of Brunswick Corporation (NYSE: BC), is the global leader in designing and manufacturing a full line of high-quality fitness equipment for commercial and consumer use. It is the largest commercial fitness equipment provider in the world and the only fitness equipment manufacturer that has been providing premium equipment for 30 years. Life Fitness’ cardiovascular and strength-training products, including the renowned Lifecycle Exercise Bike, are used worldwide in health clubs, fitness centers and wellness facilities, as well as in homes. The company is headquartered near Chicago, in Schiller Park, Ill., and distributes its equipment in more than 120 countries.

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