J.D., 56, and Varner, 53, started Club Peachtree because of their commitment to health. They chose to start the club in the manner they did because of their commitment to the community and to good business practices

Having a strong business background, being an active participant in the town they both love and setting high personal standards have all contributed to the success of Club Peachtree and GymXpress. Additionally, learning from the mistakes of other clubs that failed in the area as well as those J.D. assisted in his turn-around business contributed to the stability of the two fitness centers.

The Holmes used their own home as collateral when starting Club Peachtree in August of 1989 and for the first two years would not allow anyone to pay in advance for memberships. With the month-to-month payments, members would not risk being "stuck" with a worthless membership if for any reason the club ever encountered difficulties. As both clubs are successful, stability is not something members or future members need to concern themselves with. The Centers continue to offer month-to-month payment plans and do not rely on advance contract payment.

When the club first opened with 70 members, Varner worked three days from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. and someone else handled the other three days.

She said, "I'd work all day, clean the bathrooms, vacuum the floors and head home." She laughs about the "early days" when everyone waited patiently for the addition of showers and air conditioning. In 1992 they broke ground for the new 20,000 sq. ft. facility. Since then they have added the lagoon pool and have plans to add 10,000-12,000 sq. ft. in the near future.

The Holmes are still committed to their own health and the health of others. One or both are usually on-hand at one of the fitness centers. J.D. noted, "We love what we do and feel good about helping people help themselves. Working out works."

He continued, "As we age we need strength training more than ever. Our bones become less dense and we lose muscle mass. Studies have shown that when we do strength training, out bone density increases. People have thrown away walkers and canes after only three months of reasonable training."

Club Peachtree, a full-service health club, attracts many seniors. They offer special classes tailored for the needs of the over-50 crowd plus have water-classes in the heated pool which many senior enjoy. The addition of the new "lagoon" in the back of Club Peachtree is also a draw for many.

GymXpress is in the process of developing classes for seniors. To "kick-off" the new classes they are hosting a "Super Senior Fitness Day" Oct. 28. Dr. Scott Williamson will give free eye-screenings, Aging Matters will provide free blood pressure checks and blood sugar checks. Ashley Glen Assisted Living will have free fresh-popped popcorn and Piano Crafters will provide organ music from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Many other local groups will be on-hand to offer free services and advice for seniors. There will be a number of drawings for prizes such as a Savings Bond from Peachtree National Bank.

Club Peachtree offers racquetball courts, a junior Olympic lap pool, a free weight area, Nautilus, Icarian and Cybex equipment, water aerobics, whirlpool and sauna, stair masters, treadmills and other cardiovascular workout equipment.

The brand new GymXpress facility has a separate women's gym area, Cybex and other equipment, a cardiovascular workout area, tanning beds and much more.

Both facilities offer childcare for those who would like to bring their grandchildren. For more information on Club Peachtree call 770-487-4273, for GymXpress, call 770-631-9901.

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