Downtown gym offers ‘new concept’ workout

Jordon Trice was given the opportunity to build out the space for Reno Kicks to his own specifications, something that is very unique for a gym space.

He took successful fitness concepts from around the world and combined them to create the circuit workouts offered at Reno Kicks. He individually selected unique items of gym equipment for a fast effective workout.

Trice has always been interested in the idea of owning his own gym, but he was realistic about competition and success of certain types of gym businesses.

Several years ago he wouldn’t have taken on an opportunity like Reno Kicks. He felt he needed to build his contact list, save money and wait for the right opportunity.

“They say that luck is what happens when preparation meets opportunity and that is exactly what happened,” Trice said.

Reno Kicks opened its doors on June 20.

Trice explained the initial connection to the space was from a place he had been renting from someone who also owned a real estate company.

“I didn’t see him for a couple years,” Trice said. “He knew I was all about health, fitness and entrepreneurial type stuff.”

Eventually their paths crossed again giving Trice the opportunity to become the anchor business at 10 State Street in downtown Reno.

Opening a business like Reno Kicks was a natural evolution for Trice who has a foundation in health and wellness.

“I’ve been into fitness and health all of my adult life,” Trice said.

He explained the start of his client base was working with cheerleaders at the University of Nevada, Reno.

Trice wears a lot of hats as the owner of Reno Kicks where, he joked, he is also the janitor. As his business model grows towards a certain number of clients, he may consider another location in deep Sparks or south Reno, but downtown Reno is it for now.

Reno Kicks is “what I call a new concept gym,” Trice said.

“People need to be told what to do, shown what to do and feel safe doing something brand new,” he explained.

“I came up with this,” Trice said referencing the 2,600-square-foot gym that is Reno Kicks. “It is a place for people to drop in and have guidance from a real person.”

The format is a 35-minute outlined workout, that allows clients the flexibility to drop in based on their schedule, rather than a specific class time. The high intensity workout format is 10 stations with a three minute circuit followed by 30 seconds of rest. There are usually two trainers present to tailor, adjust and encourage clients.

“I am working with normal everyday people who need something that works,” Trice said.

He explained that this type of workout can be tailored on the spot based on a clients fitness level.

“If they want to talk about food, if they want to talk about their workout, both sides get covered in this space.” Trice added.

Reno Kicks has about three or four employees, most of whom are part time.

They currently have an integrated nutritional therapist on staff and Trice is working on his Precision Nutrition Level 1, as well.

“With the way downtown is going to grow, I think we are in an amazing spot,” Trice said regarding the location of Reno Kicks.

He mentioned Patagonia opening across the street last month and the revamping of neighboring spaces as well.

Trice explained a lot of people who work downtown come to Reno Kicks to workout. Peak times tend to be from about 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. and again from about 4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.

Part of what drives the lunchtime peak, is Reno Kicks’ offering of healthy food to go. Trice explained how the 35-minute workout leaves enough time for clients to workout, get their lunch and make it back to their desk, all within an hour.

“We have gotten a lot of positive feedback,” Trice said.

He explained how humbling seeing the results in his clients has been. He had done the research, there was the science and knowledge behind why his workouts would be successful, but actually seeing the results first hand has been something Trice is really pleased about.

Having been open for six months, Trice remains realistic about adjustments that may need to be made to continue success in a competitive gym market. His main focus continues to be on his members and adding value to the market.

Reno Kicks offers a variety of membership platforms from drop in to monthly. To learn more, visit www.renokicks.com.