Owen County Fitness: Strengthening The Community, One Member At A Time
- editor7506
- Oct 7
- 3 min read
By Morgan Thomas, Sweet Owen Editor
When Carmen Williams opened the doors of Owen County Fitness in 2022, she brought more
than weights and treadmills — she brought a mission: to help her community live stronger,
healthier lives at every age and fitness level.
A certified personal trainer since 2020, Williams specializes in aging adults and holds
certifications in areas such as Aging with Arthritis, Motivating Older Adults and Strength Training
in Older Adults. Her passion for wellness is matched by a deep understanding of small-town life
and the value of having resources like a gym close to home.
“I understood the need for health services in our area,” she said. “Exercise isn’t just grea
t for our
physical health, but our mental health, too.”
A gym that grew with a vision
Owen County Fitness was born when Williams purchased the existing Master Fit gym in April
2022, rebranding it with a broader vision for community health. But her journey started years
earlier. In 2016, she opened Gallatin County Fitness, which remains open today. Members of
either location now enjoy 24/7 access to both facilities — a major convenience for those who
live or work in either county.
A place for everyone
Both gyms are designed to be accessible and welcoming to people of all fitness levels. Williams
has made sure of that, starting with equipment that's clearly labeled and supported by a custom
YouTube channel featuring instructional videos. QR codes on each machine link directly to the
demos.
From user-friendly machines to equipment built for serious bodybuilders, there’s something for
everyone. The gym is also intentionally arranged with dedicated areas for strength training,
cardio and stretching.
“Whether you’re just starting or have been working out for years, there’s a place for you here,”
Williams said.
Classes that inspire
One of the most popular offerings is the Senior Strength Training & Mobility class, held every
Monday at 11:30 a.m. at the Owen County location. It’s $5 and open to both members and
nonmembers. The class is one of Williams’ favorites.
She and a handful of dedicated trainers — some of whom were inspired to get certified
themselves through the gym — lead a variety of offerings, with more in the works. Fitness
challenges and contests occasionally pop up on the gym’s Facebook page to keep the
community engaged and motivated.
Flexible memberships and affordable access
Membership includes 24/7 gym access, with staffed hours available throughout the week.
Options range from individual to four-person family memberships, as well as tanning-only
packages. Guest passes are available for $5 a day.
Discounts are offered to students, seniors, health care workers, veterans and employees of
local companies such as NAS, Nucor, Belterra and Dorman Products. The gym also accepts
SilverSneakers, Silver&Fit and Renew Active — programs that may qualify seniors for free
membership.
Giving back
Williams is passionate about making a difference beyond the gym walls. Owen County Fitness
is a member of the local chamber of commerce and a regular participant in community events
like golf scrambles and Project Graduation. A painting class led by Williams is hosted at the
local library every few months.
In partnership with the Owen County High School art department, the gym also displays
student-created art. A free clothing rack outside the facility offers coats and gently used items to
anyone in need — available year-round and regularly restocked by the community.
Constantly evolving
Owen County Fitness continues to grow. Recently, the gym added two new tanning beds,
including both laydown and stand-up options. More than a dozen pieces of equipment have
been upgraded or replaced since Williams took ownership, with more improvements planned.
Her long-term vision is clear: “A clean, organized gym that offers personal training, various
classes and a supportive atmosphere for all.”
More than just fitness
For many, the gym is more than a place to work out — it’s a life-changing support system.
“The gym is my sanctuary,” said member Kristal New. “Through every rep and set, I push to
become the best version of myself.”
Carol Taylor, another member, credits the gym with improving her mobility and helping her
physically and mentally during cancer treatment.
“I started going in January,” she said. “I have a piriformis and gluteus medius issue. The
machines really help. I’ve been diagnosed with Stage 3 colorectal cancer, and I feel the gym
helps with my treatments.”
These stories highlight what Williams sees as the most rewarding part of her work.
“Getting to know people and knowing we play a role in improving someone’s life — that’s why I
do it,” she said. “We’re not just building stronger bodies; we’re building a stronger community.”
Her advice to anyone hesitant to begin their fitness journey: “Just start somewhere. Get moving.
You won’t find a more supportive group than gym members. We’re in this together.”
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Learn more or sign up at owencountyfitness.com