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Introducing the Dog Pound: A New Fitness Hub for Everyone

As wellness becomes a priority for many communities, the Bridgeport Exempted Village School District is taking a significant step towards promoting health and fitness. This summer, the multipurpose facility known as “the Bridge” will open its doors, featuring the Dog Pound fitness center. Led by seasoned trainer Cole Smelley, who has over a decade of experience, the Dog Pound aims to cater to student athletes and community members of all ages.

### Accessible Membership Options

The Dog Pound is set to operate from 5 a.m. to 9 p.m. with an affordable membership structure. Standard fees will be $40 per month, $30 for Bridgeport faculty, and a special rate of $10 for students. Additionally, a Silver Sneakers program targeting older adults will offer complimentary access for qualifying individuals, underscoring an inclusive approach to fitness.

### Training for All

At the Dog Pound, both individual and group training sessions will be available. Smelley envisions the center as a welcoming space that encourages personal and community growth. “It’s a family-oriented environment where everyone can work on improving their physical and mental well-being,” he said.

Cole’s roots in Bridgeport run deep. As a proud alumnus, he expresses excitement about creating a positive venue for health and fitness. “Being part of a community that values sports and fitness has always inspired me, and now I get to give back,” he noted.

### A Community-Focused Design

Smelley actively participated in planning the layout of the Dog Pound. During construction site visits, he carefully designated spaces for machines, weights, cardio gear, and even self-propelled treadmills tailored for speed training. “Our goal was to create the best facility possible for the community,” he asserted, while praising the collaborative efforts that made the Dog Pound a reality.

### Beyond Just a Gym

Positioned conveniently near the school, the Dog Pound aims to attract youth and foster ongoing engagement with fitness, not limited to their individual sports seasons. “This space will unify kids and enhance school-community relationships,” Smelley said. Furthermore, the Silver Sneakers program is expected to draw interest from older adults looking to stay active.

Emphasizing incremental progress, Smelley believes in the philosophy of making small daily improvements, which lead to significant long-term gains. “Our mission is to build a healthier community, one member at a time,” he added.

### Enthusiasm from the Community

Feedback from the community has been overwhelmingly positive. “People are approaching me every day, eager for the gym to open,” Smelley shared. “I anticipate a strong membership turnout right from the start.”

Convenience for parents is another key advantage. “They can drop off their kids and utilize that time to exercise, which is a win-win,” Smelley explained. “The Dog Pound is the ideal starting point for anyone interested in beginning or rekindling their fitness journey.”

### The Power of Teamwork

The realization of the Bridge would not have been possible without the collective dedication of the involved team. “The hard work from everyone has been phenomenal. I’m grateful to everyone who played a part in bringing this to life,” Smelley remarked.

Superintendent Brent Ripley reinforced Smelley’s fit for the health and fitness role within the Bridge. “Cole is someone who has fostered relationships with our kids and the community over the years. His positive attitude encourages everyone to pursue their best selves,” he said.

### Your Invitation to Transform

For those considering whether the Dog Pound is right for them, Ripley offers a heartfelt invitation: “Please sign up for a membership when they become available. You will experience not only physical benefits but also improvements in overall well-being.”

Emphasizing the importance of showing up and working hard, Ripley encourages everyone to embrace change. “Transformation looks different for everyone, but what matters is the effort you put in every single day.”

The Bridge and the Dog Pound are set to open this August, promising a welcoming space for everyone to enhance their fitness journey and build a stronger community.

### Conclusion

The Dog Pound offers more than just a gym; it’s a community effort aimed at fostering health and well-being for all age groups. With accessible membership options and a focus on inclusivity, Cole Smelley and the partnership behind the Bridge are poised to make a lasting impact. Don’t miss the chance to be a part of this exciting new chapter in Bridgeport’s fitness landscape!