First, we’re finishing a reconfiguring of the space for our back training room or ‘Training Room 2.’ Basically, the space that was our fitness room prior to the pandemic is now being added to the room primarily used for Jiu-jitsu and Thai Kickboxing classes. This will result in about a 43% increase in the size of that room. The expansion is due to the growing need for additional training space, and the fact that the fitness room has been under utilized over the last 12 years.
At the time of this newsletter, the space is just about ready for the new floor and wall mats to be installed. Although there are still a few minor tasks to be completed, the expanded mats will allow classes to be conducted in the new larger space. As part of this project the entry into the room has been changed, an additional ceiling fan has been installed, the lighting is being reconfigured, and additional training equipment storage is also being added.
With the elimination of the fitness room it will no longer be possible to watch classes from there. However, a closed circuit camera system will be installed soon so that classes may be viewed from our reception area. This work is expected to be finalized by the end of the year.
We also recently began replacing our ‘old school’ florescent lights with new LED fixtures. The new fixtures will provide the same amount of light but use as much as 70% less electricity when compared to the 40+ year old fixtures. In addition, the new fixtures do not require bulbs or ’ballasts’ like the old ones, which needed replacement periodically. With over 70 fixtures throughout the building we were in a constant battle to keep up on replacing these parts.
The lights will be replaced in stages, concentrating on one room at a time. This approach will lessen the burden of the costs, and provide an opportunity to recycle parts for the old lights remaining. We expect that it will take about one year to complete this project.
Other Improvements underway include repairs to the building’s exterior and HVAC systems. So, join us as we watch the best martial arts school in the Berkshires get even better!