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Burnaby-based Next Step Training Centre is 'more than a gym'

Meet your Heights merchants: The Next Step Training Centre
Mike Franco, The Next Step
Mike Franco runs the Next Step Training Centre at 4680 Hastings St. Franco says it’s more than a gym ‘it is a lifestyle, mindset, and community that strives to teach both the experienced and inexperienced.’

Q: WHAT IS THE NEXT STEP?

The Next Step Training Centre is more than a gym. It is a lifestyle, mindset, and community that strives to teach both the experienced and inexperienced how to unleash their inner athlete.

As such the facility is fully equipped with any and every tool that can be used to help achieve that goal along with an educated staff that will stop at nothing to see it through with you.

Mike Franco, The Next Step
Mike Franco, left, runs the Next Step Training Centre. Photo by Jennifer Gauthier

The Next Step is a 2,500-square-foot haven for those who want that personalized boutique experience without the cramped training space. The centre is split right down the middle into what we affectionately term “weight side” and “turf side”.

Both halves serve purposes in strength and function respectively so members can optimize their athletic performance and results without missing any gaps in their training.

Q: HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN AT THIS LOCATION?

Opened in April 2018

Q: WHAT DOES THE HEIGHTS MEAN TO YOU?

Originally born and raised in Ottawa, Ont., I moved here in 1997. Away from family and friends I found myself planting roots and starting my own family here in North Burnaby. Much like the centre, the heights is a very special community that I now call home.

Q: HOW DID YOU GET INVOLVED IN THIS BUSINESS?

Being in athletics for over 40 years, I’ve always had a passion for fitness. I knew, after working with friends in and out of fitness centres, that this is what I wanted to do for the rest of my life.

Q: WHAT PLANS DO YOU HAVE FOR THE FUTURE?

My plans for the future is to continue to build a community within a community by not only helping people meet their fitness goals, but to create an environment that makes all walks of life feel welcome and appreciated when they walk through the centre doors

The Next Step Training Centre is located at 4680 Hastings St. For more info, go to https://thenextsteptc.com.