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kosherdave » [quote="Anonymous"] I am also the one who said that this is obviously a personal vendetta. I think we are deviating from the fact that you don't like The Slope, and there are personal or maybe financial reasons why it would be to your advantage to bad mouth this one club or maybe it's owner.Don't pretend to know my financial situation. I could afford to be a member at the slope, or any other club, a dozen times over. Just the fact that I live in PS should hint toward that. Or if you're suggesting I might have some sort of financial gain by saying I chose NYSC and not some of the other gyms, guess again buddy. I don't even know anyone who WORKS at or OWNS any of these places. If they close or sell 100 more monthy memberships, it's not going to affect me one iota (unless they close my gym, then I'll have to go else where, still not affected financially though.) And I've already told you, I have NO PERSONAL VENDETTA against the slope (or any of these places). I just did not think they were as good as the gym I go to. And this is after going to ALL of them to check them out. So stop putting words in my mouth.[/quote] here is the quote about the gym.
Brooklynian » Forum » Park Slope »
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Subject: slopefitness
Excuse my typos in the other posting. I was writing in a hurry because I actually have real work to do. Some of us seem to have way too much time on our hands. 371 posts? -
3rd generation park slope » Thank you very much. It gladdens my heart to know that there are some intelligent reasonable people here after all. The Slope has elevated this area, and I hope that they continue their good work. Look at their latest promotion. Saving the Rain Forests. FANTASTIC.
So anyone who does not agree with you is not intelligent? If that’s the case, how about this for a health club advertisement: Join now and love it or you’re a stupid idiot. -
Anonymous » You seem to be backing off from your original statements. Didn't you say that your landlord owns the gym? It's that's the case then we all know this family. Your landlord I remember as a little kid back in the 70's. You should consider yourself lucky that you have him and not some slimeball. Both him and his father are old school, and honorable men. I did business with them both, and they were always gentlemen. I remember his Grandfather behind the counter at the old Purity when it was a good place to eat. I can't believe that you have the gall to badmouth this man.
Talk about conjectures and hogwash. I never heard KosherDave badmouth his landlord. -
I think that everyone is missing the point. The complaints about the club should be listened to by the club. But if the club is addressing those concerns then why all the nasty personal attacks? Everyone has lost track of why this post was started.
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westside gal » I think that everyone is missing the point. The complaints about the club should be listened to by the club. But if the club is addressing those concerns then why all the nasty personal attacks? Everyone has lost track of why this post was started.
This thread is confusing. People discussing gym options + complaints about bad equipment + mysterious insider references + and a gym worker boasting about getting rid of rodents. Time to get off line and go jogging. -
Subject: Re: Slope Fitness
coco » What is going on at Slope Fitness? I mean who is running this place now?
That place is a rip off at any price. It's small, stuffy and not enough equipment. I checked out the place for about 10 min. before deciding to join a gym in the city. -
Subject: Re: Slope Fitness
street shooter » [quote="coco"]What is going on at Slope Fitness? I mean who is running this place now?
That place is a rip off at any price. It's small, stuffy and not enough equipment. I checked out the place for about 10 min. before deciding to join a gym in the city.[/quote] I like the place. I like the fact that I'm looked after by a very attentive staff. You can't please everyone, but I think it's great. I like the size. Make's it personal, not like some big impersonal gyms in the city. -
Subject: Re: Slope Fitness
garfield girl » [quote="street shooter"][quote="coco"]What is going on at Slope Fitness? I mean who is running this place now?
That place is a rip off at any price. It's small, stuffy and not enough equipment. I checked out the place for about 10 min. before deciding to join a gym in the city.[/quote] I like the place. I like the fact that I'm looked after by a very attentive staff. You can't please everyone, but I think it's great. I like the size. Make's it personal, not like some big impersonal gyms in the city.[/quote] Yeah, but sometimes it's bit too in-you-face personal. What's up with the cleaning people cleaning equipment WHILE I'm using it. It's great to keep a clean gym, but can't they wait until after customers, who often have lmited time for workouts, are out of their way? -
Subject: Re: Slope Fitness
Anonymous » [quote="garfield girl"][quote="street shooter"][quote="coco"]What is going on at Slope Fitness? I mean who is running this place now?
That place is a rip off at any price. It's small, stuffy and not enough equipment. I checked out the place for about 10 min. before deciding to join a gym in the city.[/quote] I like the place. I like the fact that I'm looked after by a very attentive staff. You can't please everyone, but I think it's great. I like the size. Make's it personal, not like some big impersonal gyms in the city.[/quote] Yeah, but sometimes it's bit too in-you-face personal. What's up with the cleaning people cleaning equipment WHILE I'm using it. It's great to keep a clean gym, but can't they wait until after customers, who often have lmited time for workouts, are out of their way?[/quote] I've never had that experience. But I always think that at least a clean gym is better than a filthy one. I used to belong to NYHRC downtown. Talk about filthy. I used to wonder if they ever cleaned that place. After that, I'll take santitary and a little inconvienence anyday. -
Subject: Re: slope fitness
ccolhand luke » I know all of this because I am the GM.
Thanks for letting us know. As a newcomer to the prospect heights/park slope area, i've been shopping around for a local gym. Having read your posts in this thread, I will be sure to avoid Slope Fitness. I've no interest in joining a gym where the management is so whiny and hypersensitive to criticism. -
I personally like that gym. I mean, have any of you smelled that antibacterial soap they use? Genius! Seriously, I do like the place. It is kinda small, but I don't mind that. I'm used to going to much larger gyms as that was all that was available and I didn't care for them much. Recently they replaced much of the equipment...in fact, the majority of it is new. And it seems to be nice stuff...not that I'm any authority on the fitness club business. I think it's pretty solid...but that's just one man's opinion. I do have a complaint though. It's not all the time, but usually at the end of the night, 'round 10:15-10:30, the music gets changed over to a hip-hop station. Now, that in itself is not bad...love me some hip hop. But, keep in mind their stereo system is hooked to XM radio...so that means no censoring. I've been in there before and heard, not only the music, but the conversations bt. the DJ's completely laced with obscenities. And I don't mean one or two words here and there, I'm talkin' f-bombs being dropped every other word. I'm not a prude. You'll find many a Parental Advisory sticker in my CD collection. But, at the end of the day, this is still a public place and still a business that you would assume would want to maintain a respectable, professional image. I've actually felt embarrassed with what I heard coming out of the speakers. Again, not a prude, but what you play at home maybe isn't always appropriate in a public/business environment where you can't gauge everyone's sensitivities. For me, it just shows a lack of taste...I usually hop off the equipment and leave when I just can't take it anymore. End of conservative rant.
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Subject: Re: slope fitness
ccolhand luke » No one seems to mention all of the slope's community service regarding schools, the rainforests, sponsoring youth athletic teams etc. I hope none of you guys get slammed for upgrading your business tools or decor. The furniture is far from cheap but maybe you don't know the difference between IKEA and high end furnishings. The facility has not been renovated in 6 years so simply put. It's Time, if that's ok with you. All of the equipment has been replaced as promised and there is more to come in terms of size and service. If you like the smell of sweat, dirty machines and trainers who are really actors waitng for a break, i'm sure there is a gym for you nearby but the Slope is not it. We promote a lifestyle not a 45 minute workout. Some people do like massage and others want to go on an outdoor trip with a group of certified and well informed trainers. No one gives away free water but we do have 2 count 'em 2 water fountains that you can drink from free of charge. I wonder how many of you are even from Park Slope or even Brooklyn for that matter. All of our foliage is 100% real. To make a long story short, Let US Live. I know all of this because I am the GM. P.S. Kosherdave your landlord does own this Fitness Center.
As a Slope customer I'll chime in (drawing on the discussions I've had with fellow Slope customers). First, I love the kids who work at the Slope. Especially Jacquie, Chris, etc. They are decent, down to earth, warm, and engaging people that really can make my day. The place is clean, tidy, and not a lot of frills, gimmicks, or meatheads; just regular people trying to stay healthy. No frills is a good thing for those of us who just want to get a decent work out. But in all honesty, at first people were wondering what was going on b/c there were lots of new faces in management it seemed, which sometimes sends a message that people are bailing out b/c something is amiss. Furthermore, equipment wasn't coming in as quickly as planned (the letters posted said 2-3 weeks and it took more like months), and, the equipment that was brought in seemed mostly unused (i.e. those climbing apparatuses). In addition, the cosmetic changes seemed to precede the equipment so people perhaps got the wrong idea about the decisions being made and where it was all going. But then we all began to see the improvements in the big picture: upgrading the equipment, overall attitude, professionalism/courtesy of the staff, etc. In fact, I recall some of the managers/trainers coming out with great enthusiasm and talking to us, giving us updates, or showing us the newer equipment and such. And then it was all fine. You know how it is when people get used to something and then change takes place and begins to lead to rumors and uncertainty. No biggie. Change is good. That's it. End of story. Complainers, invest your energy in a good work out. Dear GM, we're all fine and look forward to more stuff! Marina A loyal Slope customer -
the_dude » I personally like that gym. I mean, have any of you smelled that antibacterial soap they use? Genius! Seriously, I do like the place. It is kinda small, but I don't mind that. I'm used to going to much larger gyms as that was all that was available and I didn't care for them much. Recently they replaced much of the equipment...in fact, the majority of it is new. And it seems to be nice stuff...not that I'm any authority on the fitness club business. I think it's pretty solid...but that's just one man's opinion. I do have a complaint though. It's not all the time, but usually at the end of the night, 'round 10:15-10:30, the music gets changed over to a hip-hop station. Now, that in itself is not bad...love me some hip hop. But, keep in mind their stereo system is hooked to XM radio...so that means no censoring. I've been in there before and heard, not only the music, but the conversations bt. the DJ's completely laced with obscenities. And I don't mean one or two words here and there, I'm talkin' f-bombs being dropped every other word. I'm not a prude. You'll find many a Parental Advisory sticker in my CD collection. But, at the end of the day, this is still a public place and still a business that you would assume would want to maintain a respectable, professional image. I've actually felt embarrassed with what I heard coming out of the speakers. Again, not a prude, but what you play at home maybe isn't always appropriate in a public/business environment where you can't gauge everyone's sensitivities. For me, it just shows a lack of taste...I usually hop off the equipment and leave when I just can't take it anymore. End of conservative rant.
I don't like the really hard core rap but Helen Ready doesn't inspire me to pump iron. And the pop music over and over again hurts my ears. Can't please everyone I guess. I wear headphones and listen to my own music 
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I also like the changes and the new attitude there. The staff has really stepped it up. They are friendlier and more responsive to your needs. The new GM and owner are really making positive changes. The music does leave something to be desired at times, but maybe we should suggest what we like. Do they still have that suggestion box up? Overall this place has upped it's performance.
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Can't please everyone I guess.
The music does leave something to be desired at times, but maybe we should suggest what we like.
Yeah, agreed on this. I hope I didn't make it sound like I was against the rap music...i mean, look at my collection and you'll find Cannibal Ox, Ghostface, MF Doom, El-P, Mr. Lif, etc, etc. I'm down!
The choice, stylistically, isn't what bothered me...I think it's just the absurd amount of profanity thrown out in a public setting where some people may feel uncomfortable with it. It wasn't one or two blue words here and there; I'm talking every 3 or 4 words. There may be no way to please anyone, but it's certainly easy to make sure you don't offend anyone–by just making sure the music that's on isn't offensive.
And yeah, bringing your own music/headphones is key....but if you don't happen to have any, well.... -
Subject: skydiving trip
I just heard that the Slope sponsored a skydiving trip this past weekend and according to some of the people I talked to, it was totally rad. I wish I could have gone. If they have another trip, you better believe that I'll go. I hope that they do more cool trips. -
Subject: Re: skydiving trip
garfield girl » I just heard that the Slope sponsored a skydiving trip this past weekend and according to some of the people I talked to, it was totally rad. I wish I could have gone. If they have another trip, you better believe that I'll go. I hope that they do more cool trips.
Wow!!! Talk about doing a cool thing. That is really crazy, but hey, good for them. MOD NOTE: this exchange between garfieldgirl and guest is coming from the same computer. We see you . . . and are embarrassed for you. SHILLER ALERT! -
Subject: Re: skydiving trip
garfield girl » I just heard that the Slope sponsored a skydiving trip this past weekend and according to some of the people I talked to, it was totally rad. I wish I could have gone. If they have another trip, you better believe that I'll go. I hope that they do more cool trips.
How much did the triip cost? -
Subject: skydiving
I'm not sure of the exact price, but I know that it was under $300.00. They arranged for the transportation. I don't think that they made any money, because I talked to some of the people who went. and they said that these trips will be an added feature for the members. You may have to pay more if you're not a member. But it's worth it. -
kosherdave » So, remind me of the cost per month, and the sign up fee? It's been a while since I was in there. Personally, I joined NYSC cause there is a new one near my office and they're offering $69/mo with a $39 sign up fee. They have plenty of towels, TP, shampoo, the place is very clean and all the classes are included, plus I can go to any NYSC in the city/state, plus Boston and all the other area ones that I'll probably never get to... still, one near my home and a different one near my office, can't beat that!
As of last week, it was 70$/month with a 30$ sign-up fee, but they said that this will be going up shortly. However, if you have a membership prior to the price raising, you will not be affected. Higher prices are for new members only. -
daniel » [quote="kosherdave"]So, remind me of the cost per month, and the sign up fee? It's been a while since I was in there. Personally, I joined NYSC cause there is a new one near my office and they're offering $69/mo with a $39 sign up fee. They have plenty of towels, TP, shampoo, the place is very clean and all the classes are included, plus I can go to any NYSC in the city/state, plus Boston and all the other area ones that I'll probably never get to... still, one near my home and a different one near my office, can't beat that!
As of last week, it was 70$/month with a 30$ sign-up fee, but they said that this will be going up shortly. However, if you have a membership prior to the price raising, you will not be affected. Higher prices are for new members only.[/quote] That is still reasonable for the service that they provide. The new makeover over there has really been a big hit with members that I spoke to. This club has definitely raised it's standards. And I think it's keeping with how the area has improved. I love small and intimate. -
3rd generation park slope » Thank you very much. It gladdens my heart to know that there are some intelligent reasonable people here after all. The Slope has elevated this area, and I hope that they continue their good work. Look at their latest promotion. Saving the Rain Forests. FANTASTIC.
I heard that they saved almost a million square feet of rain forest. Who says that businesses are cold hearted. I love this area. Only in Park Slope can you have businesses and the community working together for a great cause. KEEP IT UP GUYS AT THE SLOPE. YOU HAVE MY SUPPORT.
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Subject: Re: skydiving trip
garfield girl » I just heard that the Slope sponsored a skydiving trip this past weekend and according to some of the people I talked to, it was totally rad. I wish I could have gone. If they have another trip, you better believe that I'll go. I hope that they do more cool trips.
Hey everyone, I just heard that the Slope is doing a get away trip to a yoga retreat!! I'm going to check it out. -
Subject: Re: skydiving trip
15th STREET SALLY » [quote="garfield girl"]I just heard that the Slope sponsored a skydiving trip this past weekend and according to some of the people I talked to, it was totally rad. I wish I could have gone. If they have another trip, you better believe that I'll go. I hope that they do more cool trips.
Hey everyone, I just heard that the Slope is doing a get away trip to a yoga retreat!! I'm going to check it out. :lol:[/quote]
How much is it?I blame such comments on beer.
© karlthedruid 2007 -
I've been considering joining Slope Fitness for a while. What puts me off is the fact that they haven't bothered to update their class schedule on their website for nearly 9 months. The class schedule HAS changed but Slope have not bothered to put the correct current schedule on their website. I haven't noticed that problem with Crunch and Equinox.
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I asked the management about their website. Jason told me that they are in the process of updating their website. Don't let that deter you from joining. The changes have been great there, and the staff has raised their standards.
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Hi - My name is Michael Carlin and I am the new owner of Slope Fitness. Here is an interview I did with Here In Park Slope.
SClubs - the gym on Seventh Avenue and Union Street, closed down earlier this month after prolonged financial difficulties, among other issues. Intriguing news, though: The gym will be re-opening, under new management, at 5:30 AM on Tuesday, May 1st.The new owner is a local named Michael Carlin, who was hired as Senior Membership Advisor for the club late last year and jumped at the opportunity to buy it from the previous owner, Nick Kotsonis.
Carlin reached out by email, and offered his plans for the space and shed some light on what went wrong the previous time around. Here's the full message:
"My plan for Slope Fitness is to bring back the original experience to the members of the community.
There was a breakdown in the prior management team, actually the last two. What made matters worse was that the last consulting manager was positioned to take over the business from Mr. Kotsonis, and he did not. He left the entire staff holding the bag of the mess he created. Myself and a few other key employees were placed in charge of doing the unfortunate thing of having to close the club.
With that said and done, Mr. Kotsonis kept me on to reconcile all members that are owed refunds. The common way of handling a club closing is to have the members file a claim because the owner is bonded and insured under NYS law. Mr. Kotsonis wanted to spare people that additional hardship, so that is why even as today we have already issued over $50,000 in refunds and the club has only been closed 2 weeks.
Don't be mistaken, closing the club for owner was not an easy decision, but he had been pouring money into a failing business month after month for over 2 years. So I understand why he made the decision he did, but I have been in the industry for over 20 years and I have never come across a more caring individual who is so involved in the community.
It should be noted that a very large corporate health club made a very lucrative offer once they heard of the closing. Mr. Kotsonis did not even entertain that idea because he believes so strongly in preserving the historic feel of the neighborhood.
In my last day as the Senior Membership Advisor, I tried to bring in an investor to save S Clubs and its staff, including myself. This did not happen. However, after positive feedback from the past members in this smooth and quick transition, Mr. Kotsonis has given me the opportunity to become the new owner of the club, which with his blessing, I am bringing it back as Slope Fitness.
How will it be different? I believe in accountability. I believe in transparency. I want members to want to join the club, not buy a membership. Anyone can rent space in a "gym". I want the members to have a sense of belonging, a sense of community. Some programming changes - I want to bring back Mommy and Me Classes, Pre-teen Fitness after school programs, have on-going health fairs, community events and so much more.
In terms of a thank you to the community and the former members I am offering Lifetime Pricing for the first 500 members that join during the pre-sale. For example if you sign up for one year at $89 per month during the month of April, you pay $0 enrollment and you will be locked into that price for the entire time you are a member.
I spent nearly 15 years of my early adult life working in a community center, so I know the importance of good leadership and being there for your members. My members will have my personal email and cell phone number. I want them to know they don't need to leave a message or send an email that won't get answered. The most amazing thing I have discovered working here in Park Slope is just how tight knit this community is.
I am native Brooklynite, and I hope to earn the trust and respect of the community.
This new adventure in my life is about to begin and I am so grateful to Mr. Nick Kotsonis for giving me the opportunity to bring back his original vision for this club.
Make it a great day!
Michael Carlin
mcarlin@slopefit.com
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