East Suffolk Recreation Center

I have postponed writing a review for East Suffolk Recreation Center despite using the gym for several weeks now. I wanted to make sure I could give a complete overview of the facility. However, since I have not used any other aspect of the Rec Center besides the gym, this review will focus solely on that.A co-worker told me about the gym at Parks and Rec; I had no idea this building existed even though I pass by it on my daily commute to work. It is located on 6th Street and is a renovation project of a historic Suffolk school. The center opened five years ago and is a wonderful resource for the community.Here is the deal on the cost:Each person has to pay an annual membership fee of $20 to Parks and Recreation. There is an additional $10/month to have unlimited access to the gym. There is no contract so you only pay for the months you use it. Michael Frickanisce is the fitness specialist and is there to help show you around the gym and equipment. You can also set up an appointment to receive one-on-one training at an additional cost of $10/hour.The gym has several elliptical machines and treadmills; both have television screens built in which is a wonderful distraction while working out. There are also a couple of stationary and incumbent bikes that are usually available. The rest of the gym is filled with weight machines. I have yet to try these out so I can't say anything about them except they look good. They do ask that you wipe down the equipment after you use it.The gym is open 6 a.m. until 8 p.m. Monday through Friday and 8 a.m. until noon on Saturdays; they are closed on Sundays. I go on weekdays around 9 a.m. and have never had an issue getting a machine. I can't say how busy it is in the evenings but I will probably try venturing over one day to check it out. Saturday mornings at opening are pretty empty.Unlike other gyms that have music blaring, the gym at East Suffolk Recreation Center is a quiet oasis. If you enjoy listening to music while working out, be sure to bring your own. Ear buds are necessary for listening to the built-in televisions on the equipment. There are many windows lining the walls of the gym so you can see the trees and grass outside, helping to get your zen on.If you've been looking for a way to jumpstart a health kick, I strongly recommend signing up for a membership. I have a treadmill at home but found myself always coming up with excuses not to use it. Now I actually look forward to my gym days--that should tell you something right there.