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Where is the Best Gym In Jefferson?

Vote for your favorites in Jefferson's Readers' Choice 2012.

 

The nominations in each category are in, and now it's time to vote for your favorite: What's the best gym in town?

Voting is open until Aug. 17. Just sign in and place your vote to pick the best in the area. The number of poll votes will determine the winner in each category. The 2012 winners will be announced on Aug. 24.

But this isn't the only category we're polling—find all 25 categories by heading over to Jefferson's Readers' Choice.

  • Where is the best place to work out in town?

    (Voting has been closed for this question)
    • Black Bear Fitness
        166 (45%)
    • Curves
        8 (2%)
    • Jazzercise
        3 (0%)
    • Oak Ridge Martial Arts
        177 (49%)
    • Snap Fitness
        7 (1%)
    Total votes: 361
  • Your vote will only count once. This is not a scientific poll. View Results Vote!
Related Topics: Jefferson Readers' Choice 2012, Readers' Choice, and Readers' Choice Services

Susan Hatch

11:55 am on Monday, July 23, 2012

Black Bear - hands down - or is that up?

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Jean Cotis

2:28 pm on Monday, July 23, 2012

Black Bear ...... No one comes close

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Heather Peterson

11:42 am on Tuesday, July 24, 2012

Love my Jazzercise! /so fun and an AWESOME workout!

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RAIN

8:20 pm on Tuesday, July 24, 2012

I have never been to Black Bear.... what makes it so great that everyone is answering Black Bear? Thanks.

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Susan Hatch

11:26 am on Friday, August 3, 2012

the people, the classes, the equipment!!!!! and did I say "the people?"

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casey smith

7:16 am on Friday, August 17, 2012

The owners are quite possibly the nicest and most supportive people that I have ever met. They genuinly care about people and doing whatever they can to help people reach their goals. The rest of the staff is amazing. The facility is very clean, and has new state of the art equipment. The people who workout their are extremly nice and you never feel intimidated. I drive from Mt.Olive to jefferson every morning and it is completly worth it.

abcmomma32

8:34 pm on Tuesday, July 24, 2012

The owners are awesome. They have a really nice variety of classes to match anyones interests. It's a really nice clean gym with great equipment and all the members are so nice and fun.

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SZ

10:01 pm on Saturday, July 28, 2012

I love my Curves. I've lost 45 pounds, have changed my body completely. Never thought I could feel this good about myself. I get strength training, Cardio, warm-up, cool down and streching, all i need for my workout in 30 minutes. I don't have time for much exercise and didn't have the ability or knowledge to change myself. I have a personal trainer even in a full room of ladies. they concentrate on making sure I am doing the machines correctly, targeting all my muscle groups to the best of my ability. This I can do for the rest of my life. then i throw in a Zumba class at curves too! my vote is Curves J-town.

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Rachel Perren

8:29 am on Wednesday, August 1, 2012

No doubt, Oak Ridge Martial Arts!!

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Maria Amsden

4:38 pm on Monday, August 13, 2012

Oak Ridge Martial Arts for Gym....try it !! it will sure move all your body parts and will leave you feeling good the entire day. We all know that variety in movement works well ...that's OMAA. Attend Zumba, cardio, toning and weights -its everything for your health and wellness.

Daydreamer80

8:38 am on Wednesday, August 1, 2012

Oak Ridge Martial Arts Academy always provides great workouts. I have never found an equal to it.

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Phil R

8:52 am on Wednesday, August 1, 2012

Hands down, Oak Ridge Martial Arts Academy.

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Jennifer Zerda

8:58 am on Wednesday, August 1, 2012

Oak Ridge Martial Arts Academy is by far and away the best!

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Mark Kraljevich

9:27 am on Wednesday, August 1, 2012

Oak Ridge Martial Arts rocks-dynamic, total body workouts without the boring machines and workouts.

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Theresa Montagnino

9:40 am on Wednesday, August 1, 2012

Oak Ridge martial Arts by far. You wont find anyone like Matt and Katherine thats more dedicated, motivated and such an inspiration. Always pushing the bar to just go for it
To be healthy better people. And u always leave feeling great. Hands down to u guys..U ROCK!

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Dawn Scanlon

9:55 am on Wednesday, August 1, 2012

Oak Ridge Martial Arts....no contest..you want to sweat and see results, then no other place to be ..Join the fun & fitness at Oak Ridge Martial Arts today!

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Deirdre Wexler

10:21 am on Wednesday, August 1, 2012

Oak Ridge Martial Arts. I am constantly amazed at what Matt and Katherine bring to the table. Karate for all ages, Zumba, Forza, Contact, Boot Camp, Toning classes - you name it, they got it. Not only that - they are wonderful people that will inspire you to be the best you can be. If you haven't been, you need to stop in!

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D. Wussler

10:26 am on Wednesday, August 1, 2012

Oak Ridge Martial Arts NEVER disappoints me. A great place for anyone at any endurance level to work out!

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Toni Puzio

10:39 am on Wednesday, August 1, 2012

Oak Ridge Martial Arts! I was so glad that when I moved to this neighborhood many years ago, I was able to find a great place to help me stay fit and energized. I am so happy to still be a part of this wonderful establishment. I am so impressed with not only the instructors, but everyone who comes here, and how motivated and inspirational they all are. We are all family here, which makes it such a wonderful place.

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parishoverlord:)

11:20 am on Wednesday, August 1, 2012

Oak Ridge Martial Arts- No Question! Katherine and Matt are two people who care about every individual that walks through their doors. You get personalized service. They believe in you and what you can acheive even if you don't. Their programs are always evolving they always strive (and acheive) to give their clients the best, nothing becomes stale and repetative. And finally, because if who Matt and Katherine are, the people they attract that become members are just as supportive and positive as them.

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Jody Rabtzow

11:40 am on Wednesday, August 1, 2012

Oak ridge Martial Arts Academy!!! Very Positive and always keep it interesting.

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DinaReo

11:53 am on Wednesday, August 1, 2012

No one can compare to the enthusiasm or interest that the staff at Oak Ridge Martial Arts take in your development. My son could not be better cared for; he is engaged from the moment he enters the door. The positivity, confidence and strength (both mental and physical) that is taught there is unmatched. ORMAA is where you will find all you need to be the best you can be. You will be encouraged and driven to your personal goals. Nothing can stop you with this team of professionals behind you.

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Jen Gonzalez

1:43 pm on Wednesday, August 1, 2012

Oak Ridge Martial Arts... hands down!!! Perfect workout place for the WHOLE family!!

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Megan Van Oudenaren

4:42 pm on Wednesday, August 1, 2012

ORMAA is the place to be. If you're looking for COMPLACENCY, this is NOT the place for you! If you're looking for a CHALLENGE, a sincere means of ACCOUNTABILITY, and an overall permanent adjustment to a HEALTHY LIFESTYLE, Matt & Katherine will cater to each and every individual's breaking point that walks through the door.

Why be better when you can be the best?

Family oriented, gives back to their own community, is a deeply committed and passionate about fitness...and FULLY SUPPORTS THE UNITED STATES MILITARY! GO ARMY! :D Love you guys!

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Colleen Cornell

5:08 pm on Wednesday, August 1, 2012

Oak Ridge Martial Arts has something for the entire family...and they make fitness FUN!!!

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Danielle Ciesla

5:16 pm on Wednesday, August 1, 2012

Oak Ridge Martial Arts of course!!!!!

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Grace

7:11 pm on Wednesday, August 1, 2012

Oak Ridge Martial Arts!! The instructors really care about your progress, the people that go there are so supportive, the classes are never ever the same so you are never bored, and youlearn a lot about fitness and how to really push yourself to do more than you ever thought you could!! Katherine, Teresa, Shawn, Laura, & Miller are some of the greatest people I know!!

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Liza Phillips

7:19 pm on Wednesday, August 1, 2012

Oakridge Martial Arts Academy, by far! It's the only gym I've ever stuck with for any length of time. I felt like I belonged there from the very first day. Awesome total body workouts that are always different. The only thing I regret is that I can't get there more often.

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Andrea Petrone

9:39 am on Thursday, August 2, 2012

Oak Ridge Martial Arts Academy. I have never felt like I truly belonged in a gym until ORMAA. There you are a part of a supportive community that inspires you to not just show up, but to push yourself beyond your limits. They also offer amazing weight loss challenges through out the year, as well as promote the local races and activities around the area.

They are the best!

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Chris Sacerdote

9:51 am on Thursday, August 2, 2012

Oak Ridge Martial Arts is great for the whole family! They have a great team of instructors who offer personal attention and truly care about the success of each of their members. The karate program is excellent as are the cardio and power toning classes. Classes are both physically and mentally challenging - never boring. The class schedules accomodate both stay-at-home and working parents.

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KGiess

5:07 pm on Thursday, August 2, 2012

Oak Ridge Martial Arts!!!! There cardio classes are Oak Ridges best kept secret. Once you try one you will know why they are the best!
They have classes for the entire family, my kids mind body and spirit get a great workout in the martial arts program as well.

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stephan socci

6:00 pm on Thursday, August 2, 2012

without a doubt oak ridge martial arts is the best. my son is not only getting in great shape he is gaining self confidence. the people there treat each other like family. try getting all that with a room full of weights.

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Katie Bonforte

9:15 pm on Thursday, August 2, 2012

LOVE Oak Ridge Martial Arts! Great for kids and adults, wonderful variety of classes! Thank you to Matt, Katherine, & the whole ORMA team for always making us feel at home:)

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R&LP

7:03 am on Friday, August 3, 2012

ORMAA – It’s more than the best gym… It’s Matt & Katherine who teach a way of life!

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Lisa

9:03 am on Friday, August 3, 2012

This is not a contest! ORMAA encompasses the mind, body and spirit. They will challenge you to be the best you can be in every way! They will guide and support you all the way with endless professionalism and boundless positive energy. Team teaching at its finest!
Lisa L.

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Patricia Hatler

9:21 am on Friday, August 3, 2012

Hands Down!!! Oak Ridge Martial Arts...It is a life changing experience you do not want to miss!! Having someone push you to your ultimate limits in strength & fitness!

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Rita Morgan

11:22 am on Friday, August 3, 2012

Oak Ridge Martial Arts is the best gym hands down!!!! All the instructors make it a point to know all their students and make them feel like a part of the family rather than a gym. The fun and friendly atmosphere is like no other gym. Between all the classes offered, Cardio Kick, Toning, Zumba and Bootcamp and personal training with Katherine (Where you find out what your really made of) there is something for everyone.

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Aneta Parzecki

11:26 am on Friday, August 3, 2012

OAK RIDGE MARTIAL ARTS!!! It's the first gym I stuck with because of the great staff and energy the gym has to make me look and feel my best. THANK YOU!!!

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Jen

12:02 pm on Friday, August 3, 2012

Oak Ridge Martial Arts! You are not a $ here you are a member of a family who knows your name and your family’s names. They understand your limitations better then you and help motivate you beyond them in a very warm personal and caring way. I will never forget the day Katherine said, 'Jen you can kick.' I tried it and she was right. I've been a member for three years now and as long as I live in Jefferson they will be my gym and family.

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Theresa Christiansen

4:13 pm on Friday, August 3, 2012

Oak Ridge Martial Arts!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

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Hillary Shaw Nardini

4:17 pm on Friday, August 3, 2012

BLACK BEAR #1....staff is tops, like a big family there!!! Great equipment, great classes. LOVE IT!!!

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Terry Bond

9:41 pm on Friday, August 3, 2012

Black Bear Fitness. Great classes, great staff, friendly people. Been going there for the past several years and absolutely love it!!!

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Tania Kallish

10:47 am on Sunday, August 5, 2012

Oak Ridge Martial Arts! Great for you and your kids. A fantastic family atmosphere!

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teresa

11:37 am on Sunday, August 5, 2012

Come try a class at Oak Ridge Martial Arts Academy!!!! You will love it!!!! :)

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Cynthia scott

9:25 pm on Wednesday, August 15, 2012

Oakridge Martial Arts provides a super workout in a great, motivating environment! But that's just the beginning, aside from getting in shape, students learn self-defense and Okinawa history. Mind and body, a winning combination!

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John Ferguson

12:57 pm on Thursday, August 16, 2012

Oak Ridge Martial Arts Academy is the place to be.

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joseph hart

12:59 pm on Thursday, August 16, 2012

Oak Ridge Martial Arts Academy #1

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Paul Raczynski

1:17 pm on Thursday, August 16, 2012

Oak Ridge Marial Arts. It's not just a way to lose weight it's a way of life.

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Shawn McCarton

3:37 pm on Thursday, August 16, 2012

Oak Ridge Martial Arts Academy!!!!!!!!!

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Gabrielle Dyl

8:09 pm on Thursday, August 16, 2012

Oak Ridge Martial Arts is by far the best gym in town!!! Matt and Katherine truly care about their clients. We all feel part of the ORMAA Dojo family! They push each and every one of us, young and old alike to do your best! Katherine and the cardio kick instructors have changed my life for the better! They build self esteem along with building your body strength. I have learned through Sensei Matt, that "can't means won't!!" My family won't go anywhere but Oak Ridge Martial Arts!! You all rock!! Thank you Matt, Katherine and all the wonderful staff!!
Gabrielle Dyl

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Jarred Scheidecker

10:03 pm on Thursday, August 16, 2012

This gym makes my mom happy. She tried other gyms but she liked this one because the people there really encouraged her to do her best.

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Emily Christiansen

10:24 pm on Thursday, August 16, 2012

Oak Ridge Martial Arts! Best money I spend every time I go!!

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Aneta Parzecki

2:14 am on Friday, August 17, 2012

OAK RIDGE MARTIAL ARTS! The one gym I stuck with because of the great staff that pushes you to look and feel your best!

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casey smith

7:11 am on Friday, August 17, 2012

black bear fitness is by far the best gym i have ever been part of. Thanks to their nutritional advice as well as their awesome personal training, i lost 60 lbs and was able to keep most of it off thru my entire pregnancy. The facility has new top of the lien equipment and is an amazingly supportive atmosphere with wonderful and supportive people.

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Karyn Lidstone

10:01 am on Friday, August 17, 2012

Oak Ridge Martial Arts! Katherine and Matt are dedicated, motivated and professional. It is clear that they care about their clients and LOVE what they do. Wish they were closer to me, however i have been known to take the drive from RI for in incredible workout!!

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Tracie Kisto

10:06 am on Friday, August 17, 2012

Casey Smith's reply above says it all! Black Bear IS THE BEST!!

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Legsverdi

10:09 am on Friday, August 17, 2012

Black Bear is tops. All of their classes are included free as part of your membership. They constantly update the equipment. And the locker rooms are always clean!!

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Christine Tinus

10:13 am on Friday, August 17, 2012

Oak Ridge Martial Arts of course. The instructors are great and really care about you.

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Anthony Genovese

10:56 am on Friday, August 17, 2012

Anthony Genovese - ORMAA !!! I'm in the best shape of my life with martial arts and I've taken a couple of kick ass classes with Katherine also. Don't be fooled because she a woman. I DARE YOU!!!!! The best is the support you get from them,and pushing you to the limit!!!

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BBB

12:03 pm on Friday, August 17, 2012

ORMAA is the only place in town for our family fitness...Matt keeps kids motivated and adults challenged...Katherine workouts are like nothing anyone has experienced - you sweat, you burn, you enjoy...ORMAA is the place t
o be in town!

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CJG

2:17 pm on Friday, August 17, 2012

BBF it is the best place to exercise and feel part of a caring, health minded community. Katy is the best! She is always positive and support while challenging you to the next level.

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iristherealtor

3:40 pm on Friday, August 17, 2012

ORMAA is the best place in town for kids and adults to focus on health and fitness!

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Vicki

6:49 pm on Friday, August 17, 2012

Black bear fitness hands down!!!

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Ron Pepe

7:03 pm on Friday, August 17, 2012

ORMAA’S #1! Sensei Matt has been my mentor for 10 years. We are a family. When you join his Dojo you join his and Ms. Katherine’s family.

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Michele O'Toole

7:07 pm on Friday, August 17, 2012

Black bear fitness. It's like a home away from home.

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Cindy Reigstad

7:31 pm on Friday, August 17, 2012

No question about it......... Black Bear Fitness

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Warren Heusser

7:46 pm on Friday, August 17, 2012

Black Bear... the owners are total babes ;)

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Michele Quinn

8:34 pm on Friday, August 17, 2012

Black Bear rocks! Member support and staff encouragement to meet fitness goals is not to be topped by any other gym in jefferson!

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Leah Hibbad

8:45 pm on Friday, August 17, 2012

I love Oak Ridge Martial Arts! Katherine and Matt are the best!!

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Leah Hibbad

8:53 pm on Friday, August 17, 2012

ORMAA....My family and I love them!

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Flo Attanasio

9:16 pm on Friday, August 17, 2012

ORMAA!!!!!!! You're the greatest!

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Candice Hibbad

9:21 pm on Friday, August 17, 2012

Oak Ridge Martial Arts is by far the best gym EVER!!

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Christina LaMonica

11:08 pm on Friday, August 17, 2012

Absolutely Oak Ridge Martial Arts! To be a part of ORMAA is to be a part of something amazing! Katherine and Matt are the BEST! I wouldn't go anywhere else!!

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billy van wolput

2:02 am on Saturday, August 18, 2012

Oak Ridge Martial Arts
Katherine and Matt are the BEST

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Jill Kossove

4:44 am on Saturday, August 18, 2012

Oak Ridge Martial Arts. Fitness fun for all ages and abilities. Best best best!

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Katy Leonard

7:16 am on Saturday, August 18, 2012

Katy and Rick Leonard at Black Bear Fitness: Congratulations to Oak Ridge Martial Arts! A little "healthy" competition between two great clubs. We are both lucky to have such awesome members that care about us. Here's to keeping Jefferson healthy and happy : )

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Kristen DePuyt

9:12 am on Saturday, August 18, 2012

..... (cont) ....With the personal touch of a small venue. Kat & Matt rock!!

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Sensei Matt Van Wolput

11:18 am on Saturday, August 18, 2012

Thank you Katy and Rick and thanks to everyone that took time to vote. It certainly shows just how much our community cares about their fitness!

Not only is our business here in Jefferson but we are residents as well. Our kids attend school here and my husband was born here. We are very proud to be a part of this fantastic community and look forward to continuing to provide our students with our absolute best.

Jefferson sure has a lot of awesome choices for it's residents when it comes to fitness and we are honored to be included in that group.

Huge thanks to our students that not only took the time to vote but also shared their comments. Quite frankly, those comments made us feel like winners regardless of the outcome!

During classes our students consistently repeat... "We are on a quest to be our best"...and that phrase has now taken on new meaning!

Cheers to all the fitness businesses in town and all of us helping our community become stronger and healthier one member at a time.

ASAHHHHHH!

Sensei Matt & Katherine Van Wolput
Oak Ridge Martial Arts Academy

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Peter

1:25 pm on Saturday, August 18, 2012

NO COMMENT, THOUGHT WE WERE VOTING FOR THE BEST GYM????

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