Working out at the mall might seem counterintuitive (two words: food court), but after visiting the newly opened Reebok FitHub at the Westfield Garden State Plaza, Fitness Editor Helaine Kay, says it’s a match made in physical fitness heaven.
The legendary athletic brand’s new concept store—a genius hybrid of retail therapy and working out—was designed to inspire people to move, train, and get in shape while having fun. No, that doesn’t mean customers are pumping iron and busting aerobics moves amongst the shop’s awesome selection of workout clothing and athletic shoes. Every FitHub location (there are 10 slated to open on the East Coast by spring) is partnered up with a fitness facility and CrossFit GSP, the partner for this location, is New Jersey’s premiere training spot for devotees of the red-hot fitness program that uses functional movements (like squatting, lifting, pushing and pulling) executed at high-intensity to provide a full-body workout that gets results.
Owner Kenny Santucci and trainer Stephanie Tuazon gave me a guided tour of this state-of-the-art gym, and I loved what I saw. The bright, industrial-chic space is a fitness fanatic’s dream, with tons of brand new workout equipment, an indoor running track, fun classes for people of all ages and abilities, a café serving Paleo-friendly meals from Kettlebell Kitchen, and an army full of certified CrossFit trainers ready to whip you into shape (safely, of course).
CrossFit GSP offers several membership options, but first-timers can drop in for free. If you’re a newbie, go for a beginner’s class (Saturdays at 10a.m.), or check out the women-centric “Everything But the Bar” class, which guides you through traditional CrossFit movements without the intimidation factor.
Reebok FitHub / CrossFit GSP
Level 1 by Macy’s, Garden State Plaza, Paramus
(201) 845-5387
