I was told by a woman at gym today that the shower area in new gym is a single bathroom for men and women, set up like a bathroom in a home with the toilet and shower in same room. Only one to be used by both sexes.
I'm staying at Golden Park in anticipation of the further improvements to be made there. Also:
1. Though the equipment isn't new, there is plenty of it, with a choice of several machines for each muscle group. I haven't been to new gym yet, but I doubt that it is as well equipped. The Russians say they are going to replace the equipment.
2. Floor space for free weights and machines is much larger at Golden Park, I can tell that just by looking at the outside of the 2 buildings.
With lots of equipment and lots of space, there is plenty of room to move around and less chance of having to wait for a machine, unless you go late in the day when it is the busiest.
3. A/C now being run on a scheduled basis at Golden Park. A/C is important to me as I perform much better and get more from my workout with A/C on.
4. With its high ceilings and many,many windows, and lots of ceiling fans, Golden Park is well ventilated. Even with A/C off, it is noticeably cooler on second floor than outside. I doubt whether this will be true of new gym with lower ceilings.
Each person has to make his own decision. Mine is to stay at Golden Park until I have a really good reason to leave.
I don't see how the new gym can operate for RD$500 per client per month, especially now when there are 2 gyms. They have a huge investment to pay off in building and equipment, employees to pay, utility bills, and A/C, too, if they really intend to provide it. Also taxes and other charges on businesses in the DR.
Vamos a ver.