New name, location, vision and expansion
By Lauri Lee
Northside Economic Development Coalition
When Orthodox Natural Fitness opens in mid-April at the Northside TownCenter, it will be an expansion as well as a move for Iron Pagoda. The new boutique fitness and wellness center, owned by David and Sarah Welther, is more than eight times the size of Iron Pagoda. The couple loves the Northside, so they are thrilled to relocate to the Northside TownCenter at 2903 N. Sherman Ave., next door to Goodwill of South Central Wisconsin in the former Kohl’s grocery store.
“We love that we’ll be near Willy Street Co-op North and the Northside Farmers Market,” said Sarah. “The vibe of being near them and the eateries serving organic, locally-sourced, fresh ingredients is a good fit for us.”
Orthodox Natural Fitness touts itself as having Madison’s best small group training with the largest variety of classes. The focus isn’t on losing weight; it’s how fitness, wellness and martial arts can make your body more useful. The Welthers believe any movement-based discipline begins with an orthodox set of principles. Anyone who begins with these principles will have a strong foundation for a healthier life. From fitness, yoga and tai chi classes to martial arts, Olympic lifting and parkour-style classes, members have access to every conceivable experience under a single membership.
With the larger space they can run more small-group classes at the same time. Members are able to freshen up before going or returning to work, since showers with rain showerheads and changing areas with cubbies and lockers are now available. Other new amenities include on-site massage therapy, life and nutrition counseling and infrared saunas to help with recovery.
Classes for beginner to advanced fitness levels are offered that appeal to all ages from youth through active seniors. People recovering from injuries and other physical pain challenges can take a class with a master instructor tuned into them and their progress. The small group training format bridges personal training and group classes to make it more affordable.
High ceilings in the new space allow room for a 12-foot bouldering wall with various levels of difficulty. If you like obstacle course races like Spartan Race or Tough Mudder, you’ll want to try out the 18-foot high Twin Tower Titan course and other military style obstacles. The Strength Bay features Olympic-style weightlifting platforms and provides heavy bags, Olympic training rings and pull up bars. In addition to the two large bays, there are two training studios for classes.
If the rare martial arts style drew you to Iron Pagoda, don’t despair; they brought it with them — including the distinctive carved doors. The Iron Pagoda name adorns the martial art training room, which is the same size as the original fitness center they called home for several years.
If pursuing a healthy and fit lifestyle appeals to you, stop by the April 14 grand opening or try out a free class April 16–20 during Open House Week. For more details, see their ad in this issue, visit orthdx.com or call 305-3412.