Have you ever taken the beautiful drive along Interstate 44 through Pulaski County in Missouri and wondered what that uniquely shaped building was off to the North of the Interstate in Waynesville? That would be The Ark Community and Sports Center; a fun place for both kids and adults!
Photo provided by The Ark
Video by Cassie Lemus
The Ark is a non-profit ministry of Grace Covenant Christian Center that exists to “strengthen, preserve, and provide a safe haven for the entire family to enjoy.” This community center offers 30,000 square feet of sports, fitness and activity space in order to offer a wide variety of activities for any kind of group or individual. Ultimately, The Ark is About Raising Kids, but they offer programs for adults and the entire family as well.
The Ark’s Vision is as follows:
· Creative, personal development activities for all ages
· Excellent instructors, trainers, classes and equipment
· Special events and programs intended to meet the foundational needs of our patrons
· An atmosphere of encouragement and uplifting attitudes
· An outstanding facility for friends, families, businesses and organizations to gather for celebration and instruction
The great thing about The Ark is that it isn’t like a normal gym. You do not have to have a membership to participate in the activities or fitness classes; you may pay as you go. They offer ongoing activities for kids, but the most popular is by far their “Kids Night Out.” This allows parents to drop off their kids with well-trained child care professionals from 6-9pm on the first Friday night of the month, so that the parents may have some quality time for a date night or dinner with friends. The Ark understands that parents can’t always find babysitters, so they offer these unique programs in order to provide a safe yet fun place for them to bring their children.
Flyer provided by The Ark
The Ark also offers Tiny Tots Child Care for parents wanting to take fitness classes. They understand that a lot of parents like to work out, but don’t have available childcare. The Ark provides this for children 6 weeks to 5 years old (prior to kindergarten) and is available for members and non-members for only $2 an hour. You really can’t beat that! For the older kids, they offer the ARKids Program for grades kindergarten through sixth and for only $3 for non-members. Usually offering these programs during the same time as fitness classes, allows parents to take classes while knowing that their kids are in good hands.
Flyer and photo provided by The Ark
Since I’ve mentioned these Fitness Classes several times already, we will move in that direction! What is so special about fitness at The Ark? They are the only place in the area that offers classes through Les Mills! “Les Mills programs represent the world’s best formulas for results and fun” while actually delivering the results that you want! They also offer Zumba Programs, so ditch the work out and join the party at The Ark! These classes are available to members and non-members; please view the price and schedule below for more information.
Photo by Cassie Lemus
Flyer provided by The Ark
The Ark doesn’t just offer fitness classes, they offer a full gym as well. With a weight room and cardio area, you can do your entire workout in one place. Like to run? They have a full track on their second floor for all of you runners! They also offer a basketball court, racquetball court and a climbing wall! How many places can you find a climbing wall? You’d be surprised the workout you get with that!
Photos provided by The Ark
The Ark offers many instructional workshops in order for the community to have a place to get certified in fitness programs or just to become more involved. They just recently hosted a Les Mills Training Program with approximately 12 people in attendance. Are you interested in becoming a personal trainer? The ARK Community and Sports Center is hosting an AFAA Personal Trainer Certification January 4-6, 2013. If you are interested please call The ARK for more information!
Whether you are travelling to the area or live in the area, The Ark offers something for everyone. Become a member or pay as you go, but have fun while you’re there!
Photo provided by The Ark
Reviews:
“The Ark is an awesome place not just for kids, but for the entire family. It is the most family friendly recreational place in the area. The family pass is the competitive advantage. No one can beat that price!!!!”
“It has the most amazing instructors and workout programs for everybody with every fitness level.”
The Ark Community and Sports Center
25625 Mo-17, Waynesville, MO
(573) 337-9128
http://thearkcsc.com/
Until next time!
Cassie Lemus
Pulaski County Tourism Bureau
Pulaski County USA 