Goals in Motion 'Family' Helps Gym Win Readers' Choice Honor

Goals in Motion customers love the atmosphere of the gym, and were eager to share comments on why its their favorite Urbandale fitness center.

During the two-week Patch contest to pick Urbandale's favorite place to work out, 82 people voted for Goals in Motion and 22 fans and clients posted positive comments on the gym.

And 21 people rated and reviewed the gym on its Patch business directory listing. 

Our program is the total package … both good intense workouts and nutrition.

Said co-owner Sandy Hafner: "We really like this contest as it was more than just how many people voted. We are a small business and can’t compete in a numbers game. . . but the comments and ratings speak volumes. We are very honored and excited about winning this contest!"

Hafner and co-owner Mardi Pfannebecker said their relationships with clients mean everything.

"That is the beauty of the Goals in Motion family," she said. "We basically sent an email out to the members informing them of this contest and what you see on the Urbandale Patch is the result."

The gym's focus is on helping clients meet their goals.

"Our program is the total package … both good intense workouts and nutrition. We teach people how to combine these two ingredients to learn to live a healthy lifestyle!" said Hafner

The fitness center offers a low-impact exercise program, a high-intensity program with many tools, a program for children as well as Zumba and yoga classes.

Other contenders

Fitness World 24 and Roundkick Gym actually tallied more votes in the poll, but couldn't match the power of so many fan comments for Goals in Motion.

Here are some of what those gyms' fans said:

"I would definitely say Fitness World 24 is the best gym in Urbandale! It is the right size gym with the right amount of equipment. Not just a 10-week program kind of place. Have been going to Fitness World for over 2 years and is by far the best gym I have been a member of." - Ben Buenzow

"Roundkick Gym is number one in my book from the staff to the programs they offer. Not only do they work with adults but they also work with kids. A true family gym." - Heidi Bates

There also was a shout out from Mike to a gym that wasn't on our list: "Max Life Fitness & Nutrition on 3000 Justin Drive! Workouts are unmatched by any other program that I have been involved in!"

And Pam Peterson gave Anytime Fitness a nice review on its business listing: "I've been to several Anytime locations and the one at Cobblestone is my favorite! Wendy, the manager, always has a smile and asks how my day is going."

Next up in our Reader's Choice contests: Where's the best place to celebrate St. Patrick's Day? Look for it on Monday.