When it comes to fitness centres, a common notion exists that one gym isn't that much different than another. Extreme Evolution Sports Centre in Laval turns that perception on its head. In an era where health clubs have become increasingly common, this state-of-the-art training facility takes physical fitness to an entirely new and holistic level.

An All-in-One Innovative Approach
Santo Sanzone, owner of the centre, notes that the design of Extreme Evolution appeals to the new wave of fitness trends. “The mentality of the customers today is not the same as it was twenty years ago. More and more people are going seeking multi-disciplinary pursuits. And we cater to that clientele,” he says. For emphasis, Sanzone describes the gratitude of a new member who recently signed up with the centre. “She told me that before she joined us, she was paying two membership fees. She was doing hot yoga at one studio and was also signed up at a fitness centre where she liked to work out. But she said that the cost of memberships was putting a dent in her pocketbook.” All of that changed after she discovered Extreme Evolution. “Now she only pays one monthly fee and has access to everything she wants all in one place," says Sanzone.

What’s more, thanks to a new partnership, Extreme Evolution clients now benefit from the Movaxion program, which gives patrons access to more than 30 gyms across Quebec. Working out while travelling for business or pleasure has become more accessible than ever before. A second Extreme Evolution in Sainte-Marthe that opened four years ago is also available to clients with a membership.

Even the physical layout of the centre confirms the commitment to innovation. On the second floor of the centre, a private women's section is available for women who may not desire to work out in the mixed section below. "We've created an environment where women will never feel judged. If they feel shy or reserved, for whatever reason, they have their own space where men are denied access," explains Sanzone.

Something for Everyone
If you're interested in yoga, Extreme Evolution has it. Perhaps cross training is your thing; they offer that as well. Zumba, spinning... guess what? The 33,000-square foot centre has that too! Or maybe you're interested in picking up some boxing techniques? Well, you'll be happy to learn that you can train like a pugilist, picking up tips from the centre's in-house boxing coach in a training area that features a boxing ring.

Sanzone, a former body-builder says his customers appreciate the friendly, laid-back atmosphere Extreme Evolution has created. “The fact that we know all of our customers by their first name and always greet them with a smile helps removes the intimidation factor that you may experience at other gyms,” explains Sanzone.

To make one’s experience even more unique, the team at Extreme Evolution includes medical professionals such as a physiotherapist, massage therapist, chiropractor, x-ray technician, nutritionist, personal trainers and a kinesiologist.

Building Healthy Habits as a Family
Sanzone recalls that his first experience going to a gym was with his father when he was 13 years old. “He was an exercise fanatic and the motivating force that inspired me to travel down the same path. So, I am unwavering in my commitment to creating a health centre that is warm, welcoming and family- friendly,” says Sanzone, who radiates sincerity and joie de vivre. “I want parents to bring their children here, to inspire their kids the way my father inspired me, so we have created a variety of activities designed for children."

Extreme Evolution offers a non-contact kids’ boxing program for children aged eight to 14 years old. For parents who not only want to set a great example of healthy lifestyle habits for their children, a parent-child boot camp is available so that parents and children can get healthy together!

A Commitment to Your Satisfaction
The clean, modern facility not only offers an integrated approach to physical fitness, it also promises to remove the hurdles that make it difficult for you to get your daily dose of exercise and nutrition. If you're a parent on a tight schedule who would love to squeeze in an hour-long workout but can't arrange for a babysitter on short notice, worry not. An on-site daycare with qualified child care workers will make structuring your workout regime stress-free. And if your nemesis isn't about the amount of time that you're putting in at the gym, but the food you're eating, Extreme Evolution features a bistro that offers a delicious array of healthy meals and snacks, as well as protein shakes that can be consumed on site or taken to go.

Sanzone insists that the profound commitment to sound physical fitness that permeates Extreme Evolution separates it from the competition. "I don't come to work, I come to my favourite place, and I believe that my love for what I am doing rubs off on our staff and clients," he says.

Come Discover a New Approach
The Laval centre, which is celebrating its one-year anniversary, is a sight to behold and needs to be seen to be truly appreciated. “The best way to evaluate us is to come and see the centre for yourself. You'll get to know what type of people work out here. You'll see how clean and accessible it is,” explains Sanzone. “So, come and enjoy an espresso in our bistro and meet our staff and personal trainers and discover if we're right for you.”

The centre is open seven days a week from 4;30 am to midnight Monday through Friday, and from 7 am to 8 pm Saturday and Sunday. The Laval location is at 4463, Autoroute 440. They can be contacted by phone at 450-688-8333 or visit extremeevolution.ca.