Heart of Lansing: Business Stories - Lansing Fitness Center
In the heart of Lansing, where the community spirit thrives and locals take pride in staying active, one young entrepreneur is making waves by turning his passion for fitness into a flourishing business. Meet Austin Flugum, the owner of Lansing Fitness Center, who has poured his energy and vision into revitalizing the gym and making it a hub for health and wellness.
A Dream Realized Growing up in New Hampton, Iowa, Austin spent countless summers in Lansing with his family at their cabin. After graduating from the University of Northern Iowa with a bachelor’s degree in Business Management in 2023, he found himself naturally drawn back to Lansing. His lifelong passion for fitness and his desire to put down roots led him to an unexpected opportunity — the chance to purchase the local gym.
“One day, while visiting the gym, I noticed it needed a little more love and attention,” Austin recalls. “I reached out to the owner, and it turned out she had been trying to sell it off-market for about a year. We met as soon as possible, I made an offer, and it was mine. It felt like the perfect opportunity right out of college.”
Fitness and Community at the Core Lansing Fitness Center is more than just a gym — it’s a community space where members can connect, stay active, and support one another. Housed in a historic old church, the gym’s unique charm is just one of the features that make it special. Inside, you’ll find a wide array of equipment including:
Free weight dumbbells up to 100 pounds
Two benches, a squat rack, and a Smith machine
Three treadmills, three ellipticals, and two recumbent bikes
A private side room with additional dumbbells, a squat rack, ballet bar, mirrors, and TRX ropes
Nourishment and Refreshment
The gym also offers convenient nutrition options, thanks to trainer Brytnee with Bryt FYT, who stocks protein bars, beef sticks, and caffeinated energy drinks. Perfect for a quick boost before or after a workout.
Classes, Personal Training, and Community Engagement Lansing Fitness Center offers a diverse lineup of fitness classes and personal training services designed to meet the needs of the community:
Personal Training with Austin Flugum – Customized one-on-one sessions available by appointment
Pilates or Personal Training with Maryann Baldwin – Pilates is every Monday and Wednesday at 9 AM
Yoga-Inspired Classes with Nicole Winkee – Relaxation and stretching, with schedules posted on Facebook
HIIT, Full-Body Workouts, and personal training with Brytnee Bednarski with Bryt FYT – Class schedule varies based on her work schedule and availability for personal training sessions
(photo back row: maryann, nicole, brytnee front row: austin )
In addition to regular classes, the gym is hosting it’s first annual fitness competition, Hyrox, on May 17th. This intense race features eight weighted exercises interspersed with 800-meter runs, testing both strength and stamina. Registration costs $25 per person or $40 per team of two, and the event will be held at the Lansing School Track. Spectators, including families and kids, are welcome to come and cheer on the participants.
Participants will be split into two age groups — grades 6-8 and grades 9-12 — and will receive age-appropriate instruction tailored to their goals and ability levels. Sessions will be led by certified trainers Brytnee Bednarski and Austin Flugum, who will each coach one of the groups. Whether preparing for a sports season or simply looking to get stronger, this program provides an excellent foundation for youth in the community.
Building a Healthier Lansing
Since taking ownership, Austin has made cleanliness and community engagement top priorities. “It’s important to keep the space inviting and clean,” he shares. “One of our community members even helps out regularly, making sure the gym stays tidy and welcoming.”
Lansing Fitness Center continues to evolve with new equipment, engaging events, and a commitment to fostering community spirit. Whether you’re looking to get stronger, join a class, or take on a new fitness challenge, Lansing Fitness Center is the place to be.
For updates on classes and events, visit their Facebook page, visit their website at lansingfitnesscenter.com or stop by the gym. Join the community and discover how Lansing Fitness Center is building a healthier, stronger Lansing — one workout at a time.
Why We’re Highlighting
This Business Main Street Lansing is proud to spotlight local businesses like Lansing Fitness Center through our "Heart of Lansing: Business Stories" series. These features celebrate the entrepreneurs and small business owners who make our community vibrant, resilient, and welcoming.
If you have a celebration, milestone, or are interested in having your Lansing business featured, we’d love to hear from you. Please reach out to us at [email protected]. And don’t forget to check out our website at lansingiowa.com for a full list of businesses in our directory and to learn more about the amazing entrepreneurs who make our community shine.
