OCEANSIDE — Vista Community Clinic took on lease and management of Club 55 fitness center a year ago, and renewed its lease this month.
The city-owned fitness center has a long history with the community. Junior Seau funded the club, which is named after his San Diego Chargers jersey number, 55.
The club serves adults and has a high number of senior members. About 80 percent of members are age 55 and older, and 20 percent live outside Oceanside.
“Most members have been going there for years,” Herminia Ledesma, Vista Community Clinic Health Promotion Center program supervisor, said. “It’s a great resource to them, it connects them other people and helps them be a little bit healthier.”
Ledesma said the city/health clinic partnership allows the clinic to offer comprehensive health resources.
Club staff is certified in assisting members with doctor-prescribed therapy workouts.
A nutrition class was given last year and more classes are planned. Flyers on health and wellness tips, as well as information on clinic resources, are available to members.
The major change made to the club since the clinic took over management is the purchase of four new treadmills.
“It was the No. 1 request of members,” Ledesma said.
More club improvements are planned, including new carpeting, which will be installed this month.
“It will be a great improvement in the next couple of weeks,” Ledesma said.
In addition to treadmills, the club has cardio treadclimbers, weight machines and free weights to keep members toned.
A bonus is yearly membership is only $65, and $55 for seniors and those on a limited income.
Ledesma said the number of members doubled over the last year, through community outreach at Vista Community Clinic locations and Oceanside senior centers. She added more members are encouraged to join.
Club 55 is open Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 11 a.m. and 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.
