In this 2008 file photo, fitness trainer Adam Moskow, right, works with Steven King, of Lawrence, at Fitness Together, 1540 Wakarusa Drive. There's a growing need for personal trainers as Americans are looking to get back into shape.

Bob Kolars figures there’s no reason not to get fit in Lawrence.

Kolars, a holistic trainer at Lawrence Athletic Club, 3201 Mesa Way, said there is an increasing variety of options for those wanting to get in shape.

“Parks and walking trails are free and plentiful. Opportunities for solitary or communal workouts abound in gyms and fitness classes,” said the 71-year-old Kolars.

“We all need to invest in our health and work to balance our minds and spirits as well as our bodies. Age is no barrier to exercising. I’ve worked with 92-year-olds who were fit and healthy.”

LAC is among the Lawrence gyms that regularly receives updates.

Last summer, owner Rick Sells had the indoor swimming pool refurbished and converted to saltwater. New exercise and weight-training equipment has been added. He introduced Zumba classes when the craze swept America last year, and they’re still popular.

New to the Lawrence fitness business community is Fitness Together, 1540 Wakarusa Drive, which opened in May 2007.

Steven King, a Kansas University junior, said he works out there on a regular basis with a personal trainer in one of the private weight rooms.

He said his interest in exercising dropped off significantly when he first entered college.

“My motivation to exercise regularly just disappeared,” he said. “I needed someone to hold me accountable.”

And he found that at Fitness Together.

“I’m healthier, stronger and more energetic now.” he said. “I don’t have to wait for machines, and I keep appointments.”

Co-owner Paul Sterrett admitted it wasn’t for everyone.

“It appeals to those who dislike the buzz of the gym atmosphere, have overloaded schedules, don’t have time to wait around, and who have expendable incomes,” Sterrett said.

Business partner Tony Turner said he believed Lawrence had been an untapped market for a more personalized fitness center like theirs.

Other businesses cater to women. Curves, 2104 W. 25th St., is one of those.

Erin Haron, a Curves patron, said she felt comfortable there from the start.

“I wasn’t asked how much I weighed,” she said. “I was relieved not to have to fit into a preconceived box; I was helped to set personal goals, and I’ve never felt bored here.”

Fellow Curves member Donita McLeland agreed.

“I like the circuit training, the in-between rest spots, the feeling of community, and it never gets boring,” McLeland said.

For those looking for a different experience, Yamuna body rolling has arrived in Lawrence.

According to Becky Bridson, owner of “Action Potential,” Yamuna (pronounced “ya-men-ah” and referred to as YBR) is a revolutionary approach to health and fitness. She currently leads groups that meet at the fitness center at Hutton Farms, 3401 Hutton Drive.

“We use specially designed 6- to 10-inch balls,” she explained. “Unlike other ball exercises, it allows you to work specific muscles to create suppleness and flexibility. It takes you from the muscle origin, stimulates bone and soft tissues, and helps create permanent positive change in the body.”

Bridson is a nationally certified YBR trainer, and strength and conditioning specialist.

“I aim to help people get in touch with their bodies, and empower them to become fit and healthy,” she said. “YBR can help injured bodies recover and heal, and they can be freed from restrictions caused by conditions such as arthritis.”

Nancy Stewart, a 51-year-old empty-nester is typical of some of the first Kansans to try it. She walks but never tried lifting weights and didn’t want to join a gym. When she heard about YBR, she decided to give it a go.

“I love it,” she said. “I can see and feel the positive changes in my body. It hurts at times, but the benefits have been worth it, and I’m always energized by the end of a session.”