By Chris Granville

Upon first arriving at Fitness Results in the Flatiron District, I found myself transported from the crowded Fifth Avenue block below to a tranquil setting that seemed part art gallery, part meditation chamber, and part fitness studio. And indeed, as I began to learn in my discussion with owner Jeff Shammah, they follow a holistic approach to fitness and well-being, exercising tolerance, respect, and understanding to integrate many different parts in an effort to make them work together.

The two main rooms where activities such as Pilates, yoga, dance, and personal training take place feature art from local artists, fish tanks, and plants that weave their way through the equipment. The result is a space with a calming presence and plenty to stimulate both mind and body. There is a full array of equipment such as cables, free weights, kettle bells, TRX, and cardio machines, but there are no redundancies and everything is thoughtfully placed to allow for a soothing flow. Only a small number of trainers are allowed at any one time in an effort to maintain the sense of serenity. The overall goal, as Jeff explained, is to allow for many different areas of practice to coexist in a single setting. As he described it, the studio is “a laboratory whose experiments are aimed at increasing the greater good of the client.”

Between the two main rooms are several smaller rooms that are set up for massage, acupuncture, and Eastern arts and medicine. Practitioners of Tibetan and ayurvedic medicine, quantum biofeedback, reiki, and reflexology make use of the space, adding to the holistic setting. There is also a common area where clients and practitioners can relax and mingle next to the changing rooms and showers, complete with towel service and lockers.

Trainers, yoga and Pilates instructors, and specialists in a variety of health and wellness modalities are encouraged by Jeff to interact and learn from each other while working out of the entirely freelance Fitness Results space. Clients, meanwhile, are encouraged to explore the numerous treatments and approaches to well-being. In addition, art shows, music events, and other performances are common occurrences.

What’s happening at Fitness Results is unique. Encouraging so many different varieties of fitness and therapy to work together allows for a sense of exploration and learning for both practitioner and client. I found their approach compelling and thought-provoking, and I can’t wait to see what’s next in store for Fitness Results.

 Chris Granville is an ACSM certified personal trainer. A former NCAA Division 1 and professional athlete, he’s a managing editor in book publishing and lives in New York City.