Dan's Papers - April 17, 2009 - Jammin' It at the Gyms

It's springtime, which means that going to the beach is not too far away. But you only have so many more days to get your body beach ready. Unlike the wintertime, there is no way you can hide your extra gut as you shed more and more clothes. This year, it is well worth joining a gym, not just for the fitness benefits, but for the social and fun benefits as well. Your gym can be your sanctuary and when you leave you can feel like a whole new person.

In the Hamptons, we have a plethora of gyms that one can join to create a whole new you, so consider the following gyms and see which one makes the most sense for you.

Core Dynamics on Deerfield Road in Water Mill has managed to create an impressive following in a very short amount of time. Head on in and say hello to Jim, the owner, who will show you all of their latest equipment and excellent facilities. The gym is a good one for those that are looking for a tightly knit community and excellent service. (631-726-6049)

Hamptons Gym Corp. is an example of a solid business that has grown throughout the area. They have just opened up the new Southampton location, and their Sag Harbor location is first rate. Offering competitive prices and excellent equipment, Hamptons Gym Corp is a great option. (631-725-0707)

Staff writer TJ Clemente has lost over 40 pounds and counting by going to the gym at Gurney's Inn in Montauk. The gym is the only one in the Hamptons with a full and unobstructed view of the ocean. Enjoy the amazing benefits of their seawater spa with your membership, which includes a full sauna, steam room, Roman bath and Olympic sized swimming pool. (631-668-2345)

Known as the "Cheers Gym" because everybody that goes is friendly with one another and knows each other, Body Tech in Amagansett and Montauk are two excellent gyms. You'll love the friendliness, but don't be fooled - you are there to work. Fitness trainers are all around you, offering a personal service that is truly excellent. (631-238-5311)

Railroad Avenue Fitness, also known as X-Fitness, is a personal training gym built by trainers. They offer state of the art equipment and no membership fees. Training is by appointment only and is provided by Chris Carney, the guy who started the Wounded Warrior Project and rides his bicycle to California and back every year. Well worth the price. A 10 pack of training sessions runs you $750. (631-907-4221)

Radu in Southampton is a fitness jewel. Located near the movie theater, the gym offers a basketball court, excellent trainers and a high end feel with regular gym prices. The place is gorgeous and comes highly recommended. (631-283-9303)

JT Fitness, located on Jobs Lane in Southampton, is also at the top of many lists. The gym has fantastic equipment and offers a convenient location. Definitely worth checking out. (631-287-5156)

East Hampton Lifeguard Jimmy Minardi offers exceptional personal training and an intense fitness yoga platform that has drawn a cult-like following. Jimmy is not known for going easy on you during a personal training session, and his clients like it that way. Nine out of 10 Minardi clients have six-pack abs. He's a fitness guru to many. (631-680-3000)