It was just an idea back in 1998. Open a gym where the people at the front desk smiled and said, "good morning", when you walked in. Where the members felt like they actually belonged. Where they could strike up a friendly conversation. Or even make a new friend.
Yes, the whole "Cheers" thing. Only without the booze. And that's what happened. Over the years, the name of the gym changed from Gold's to Suncoast Fitness. But the vibe remained. In May 2021, Suncoast's location on 38th Ave. was bought by Whole Foods, and owners Bob and Cindie Buchanan decided to step back from the business.
But that's not the end of the story. Enter John and Lacole Hunter. John was the manager at Suncoast - he and Lacole first met at the gym. Together, they decided to keep the Suncoast tradition alive. Same friendly attitude. Same feeling that they're genuinely glad to see you.
Which brings us to today. Suncoast Fitness has relocated to 33 6th St. S. in downtown St. Pete. It's near the Holocaust Museum and the Pinellas Trail.
- Tom Zucco