By Charlene Dean

The space at 3640 S. Highway 160, formerly occupied by Xpress Fitness, will open to the public as Custom Health and Fitness on Friday with the same staff, but not the same owners.

When Xpress Fitness owners Simon Harkin and Steve Benson closed the former gym Oct. 15, and removed gym equipment in the middle of the night, a lot of members were angry. Some had just had the gym fees automatically withdrawn from their bank accounts.

At that time, building owner Chris Telles intended to have another fitness facility up and running within “10 days.” It has taken until now to reorganize.

George Arceo, who is the gym’s manager said, “Those people were renting from Chris, the person who owns this building. They weren’t paying rent, just taking the members’ money. They basically took the money and ran.”

Harkin and Benson were being evicted from the property for non-payment of rent.

Arceo said Telles not only owns the building, he is also the owner of Custom Health and Fitness and those who join don’t need to worry about the facility closing.

“Chris doesn’t have to pay rent. He’s his own landlord.”

In a press release, Telles said, “As the owners of the Edwards Homes Commercial Complex, we were extremely concerned by the default of Xpress Fitness.

“Our response was to pull together a team of the best health and fitness professionals in Nye County.”

He said they listened to the public and created a health club to address their concerns.

“Custom Health and Fitness is designed from the bottom up to help our members get fit and build a healthy lifestyle.”

The facility will offer classes, personal training and nutrition products, Telles said, and “will allow us to design a complete program to meet fitness goals.”

Arceo said membership fees will still be on an automatic payment system.

New, state-of-the-art equipment was being assembled and installed Monday afternoon.

“There are a lot of exercise machines out there that promise results,” Arceo said. “We’ve put together a wide range of Matrix and Hoist equipment that will produce amazing results if you have the commitment. This facility is one of the best in the state.”

The classes will be held in a dedicated room and will include yoga, spin, pilates, zumba and strength training.

Professional day care is offered as well.

Until Feb. 29, the gym will waive processing fees as an introductory offer.

“We want people to take a look at what we have to offer,” Arceo said, “without thinking they have to come up with $100.”

The monthly cost is $40 for individuals. Arceo said packages are available for families of three and four, seniors and businesses. Fees entitle members to 24-hour use of the equipment, the sauna and all offered classes.

Call 775-230-7022 for additional information. A website www.customhf.com is under construction.