Location: 675 Randolph Ave, St Paul
Brittany Runyon has been running her studio, Recess Training and Fitness, for about four years. Her logo says it all, this is a place for fun, friendship, and exercise. I love the quote on her website that captures the essence of what Brittany is trying to create. “Kids need a comfortable, safe place to train without the pressures of a large gym.”
Brittany started out teaching after-school HIIT classes for students at her children’s school and then decided to take the leap and open her own studio. With her personal training license, she found it difficult to train kids at the larger gyms, so she made a move and turned an old bank into the perfect place for kids (and adults) to move, stretch, sweat, laugh, and just feel better in their bodies.
This isn’t just a gym for kids who are involved in competitive sports but a place for any kid young or old to have a place they feel welcome and accepted in and to train how they choose. There are yoga classes for kids, team training in a variety of sports, or even a group of women friends forming their own class tailored to their needs. Young people these days are bombarded with tech, social media, and 5-second pulls for their attention. Recess is a place for them to set down their devices, build friendships, and receive positive body image messages.
When you walk in you notice small areas arranged thoughtfully and organized with intent. Every part of the space has a purpose, from the yoga studio where classes are taught by Ashley Winger, to the “vault” where free weights and all yoga essentials are kept. Treadmills, rowers, bikes, bands, and anything you might need are provided, all you need is water and a great attitude! Recess has changed the way we think about a “gym” and created a safe space for fun and fitness. If you are interested in learning more or booking some classes for you, your child, or a team, I highly recommend you contact Brittany and make it happen. Enjoy your recess break!
