West Side Gym slated to open mid-January

When Randy Plumb wants something done, he doesn’t wait around for it to happen.

“My life is, if I want to do something, I just do it. The key to a successful life is to find your niche, do what makes you happy,” the 55-year-old hairstylist and entrepreneur said. “The two things that make me happy are doing hair and working out.”

The born and raised Newtonian’s latest endeavor is the creation of the West Side Gym, located next to The Bridal Sweet on the downtown square in Newton.

The gym originally was slated to open in the fall of 2012, but since Plumb is handling all the refurbishing of the former flower shop himself, it’s taken longer than originally anticipated. He now hopes for a mid-January opening.

West Side Gym, once completed, will house an eight-camera security system for the protection of clients, wrap-around lockers near the entryway to stash gym bags, cable TV and locker rooms and showers in the basement. Up to 10 treadmills and elliptical machines will be available for those who prefer a more cardio-based workout, while the facility will exclusively feature Hammer Strength equipment for anyone looking to tone up.

“(Hammer Strength) is designed to be ergonomically correct to move with your natural range of motion ... to put less stress on the joints. It’s plate-loaded equipment,” Plumb said, noting that Newton Senior High School utilizes the same machines. “This appeals to all ages because it starts with minimal resistance, like seven to 10 pounds.”

Although Newton is home to several health clubs already, Plumb believes his gym has what it takes to succeed, mainly because of the central location in town and the upgraded weight machine technology.

“What makes my gym separate from everywhere else is my gym appeals to everybody,” he said. “A professional bodybuilder could use my gym or a senior citizen could use my gym.”

Fees to the public health club have yet to be finalized, but Plumb said he plans to offer discounts to veterans, seniors and families, as well as implement a reward system of some kind that could include such items as T-shirts.

Plumb isn’t out to make a huge profit on the gym he calls his “hobby.” At the end of the day, he just wants to help people become healthier.

“I’m doing the gym because I’m not done with that chapter in my book of life. I work out and  I promote a healthy lifestyle because that’s what I believe in,” he said. “I don’t drink. I don’t smoke. If nobody belongs to the gym at all, it’s for me personally because of my lifestyle and what I believe in.”

“Dude, it’s my gym. It’s killer!” he added with a smile.

For more information on how to join West Side Gym and special offers, contact Randy Plumb at (641) 831-9594.

Amy Martens can be contacted at (641) 792-3121 ext. 426 or via email at amartens@newtondailynews.com.