'A look over the park': Redemption Fitness opening on third floor of downtown building
Feb. 3—JOHNSTOWN, Pa. — A new gym is set to open in mid-February with a view of downtown Johnstown.
Becca LaBar, 26, of Johnstown, is opening Redemption Fitness on the third floor of 442 Main St.
LaBar is a Conemaugh Valley High School graduate. In 2019, she earned a bachelor's degree in psychology from the University of Pittsburgh at Johnstown; earned a master's degree in counseling from Mount Aloysius College in Cresson in 2022; and received a post-master's certificate in behavior analysis last year.
In addition to her work as a behavioral consultant with Children's Behavioral Health Inc. and as an outpatient therapist with Family Behavioral Resources, she has earned a personal training certification.
She named her gym Redemption Fitness for her Christian faith, she said, as well as her own personal wellness journey.
LaBar chose the location for her gym with help from Melissa Komar, Johnstown Redevelopment Authority executive director, who introduced her to the owners of the four-story building at 442 Main St.
Built in 1883 by the Alma Lodge fraternal order, the building provided shelter for about 300 people on the night of the 1889 Johnstown Flood, according to a plaque on the first floor. The Alma Lodge continues to own the building.
Komar said that LaBar is unique among other entrepreneurs as she takes advantage of what downtown buildings have to offer on upper floors.
"She's not shy of second- and third-floor space," Komar said.
"With work, she will provide a look over the park. What her clients will see is downtown brought back to life. It's great to see younger entrepreneurs come downtown, and see upper floors of buildings being used."
LaBar said she was attracted by the development in the area, including the recent addition of Roots Kitchen + Juicery at 425 Main St.
"I'm in love with this area," she said. "There is so much potential. My grandparents talk about how great Johnstown used to be. It won't be like that, but it will be great in a new way.
"I believe in what can be done here."
Redemption Fitness will provide classes during mornings, afternoons and evenings, she said.
Her sister, an early education professional, will provide child care during classes.
The gym contains equipment for cycling, bar exercises, Pilates and kickboxing cardio, in addition to personal training.
LaBar said she wants to create a culture at the gym where everyone feels welcome.
"Classes will be adapted to all ages and fitness levels," she said.
LaBar has remodeled the space with help from her boyfriend, who owns a contracting company.
The first floor of the building is currently home to Smoke City. The second floor, which had served as attorney offices for nearly 40 years, is vacant.
The fourth floor belongs to the Alma Lodge, which has 30 active members, men and women, and organizes efforts for area food banks.
It has been about 10 years since the second floor was occupied by the Retired Men's Club, said Richard Oaks, one of three trustees of the Alma Lodge.
"She's a good, young business owner," Oaks said. "We've never opened the third floor until recently for rent by the Retired Men's Club. It's been about 10 years.
"Then, Johnstown Redevelopment Authority said they had someone. We were impressed and happy. She will be a good fit, not only for the building, but for all of downtown Johnstown. She will draw people downtown."
