GLADSTONE, Mich. (WLUC) – The ribbon to the new Gladstone Tribal Fitness Center is cut and the facility is now open and free to members.

Joe Valencic says he’s worked out at a gym in Escanaba for 30 years and likes how the new center is closer to home.

“It’s close for the whole community to be able to use, for the whole tribal community,” Valencic said. “And I think for people who can’t get out very much.”

The gym will offer 24-hour access to state-of-the-art equipment like treadmills and weights so you can improve your health and recovery.

Sault Ste. Marie Tribe of Chippewa Indians chairman Austin Lowes says Native Americans are disproportionately impacted by health ailments like cancer and diabetes.

“One of the best forms of medicine is movement and, you know, it’s gonna be a place where members can get together and increase community inclusion, and it will be a place where tribal members can exercise for their health and wellbeing,” Lowes said.

Sault Tribe Rural Health Program Manager Nicole Fuson says only tribal members can try out the center in the next several weeks, and other groups can sign up later for paid memberships.

“This fitness center will give our native population a place to come and work out and stay fit without being ashamed of what they’re doing. We’re all about inclusion, not exclusion.”

Fuson says the staff will be glad to help members like Valencic learn the equipment.

“Mainly for longevity and quality of life,” Valencic said. “You know, you wanna be able to last a little longer than the normal person.”

Center hours are noon to 8 o’clock until Friday. You can get a key fab for 24-hour access starting Tuesday.

The center is located in the Gladstone Tribal Health Center at 2002 Minneapolis Avenue. Call (906) 341-1836 for questions and information.

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