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By JIM LUKSIC
Traveler Sports Editor

There are plenty of places in Arkansas City to shape up, if you don't want to ship out.

Two of the ol' reliables include the Ark City Recreation Center and the Ben Cleveland Wellness Center, both of which are located on Fifth Avenue. There's also a new hi-tech kid on the block -- Summit Street, to be exact -- known as FitZone, which opened April 18.

Given that spring is an ideal time to get loose and "break it down," the following is a summary of the three gyms:

* FitZone

There are many factors that distinguish FitZone from other exercise centers in the region, according to owner Pat Simmons.

"The big attraction is that we're the most convenient center. We're open 24/7," he said.

What's more, members must use a keyless-entry, fingerprint scanner to enter the facility from 8 p.m. to 8 a.m. The building also features security cameras and an emergency-call system.

Among the fitness center's amenities: treadmills, dumbbells and free weights and plated machines. It also includes a juice and oxygen bar. Training programs are available upon request.

Child care is available. In addition, individuals between 11-17 need to be accompanied by a parent or guardian.

"That rule is strictly enforced," Simmons said.

The cost is $25 for a monthly single membership; $40 for couples; and $60 per family. "But fees will decrease the longer you sign up," said Simmons. A one-year single membership, for example, costs $200.

Discounts are available, as college students and senior citizens receive 10 percent off.

Simmons wants to encourage the public to visit FitZone, because "everybody can use a fitness program."

"Our goal is to provide a clean, convenient workout area, with a staff that really wants to work with people."

* The Ark City Recreation Center

Casey Doty said there's no shortage of fitness opportunities at the Rec Center. "We strive toward offering programs and fitness opportunities for all ages," said Doty, the facility's director.

"We manage a state-of-the-art fitness center, indoor and outdoor aquatic facilities, youth and adult recreation programs, and special events," he added.

The ACRC Fitness Center located on the lower level offers the latest in equipment, according to Doty. Cardiovascular, strength training equipment, and sauna are all part of the package.

According to Doty, the Fitness Center has staff available to coordinate and personalize a workout program to fit individual needs. The Family Aquatic Center, managed by the Arkansas City Recreation Commission, is located at Ark City High School.

Said Debbi Davidson, the center's aquatic director: "Aquatic exercise is an excellent workout opportunity, one that limits stress on the body due to the low-impact nature of the water."

"We have a great facility for lap swimming, water jogging, water aerobics or recreational swimming for the kids to have fun while exercising," Davidson said. "The pool is open on weekdays and weekends for the public to enjoy."

Rec Center memberships are available at a relatively low cost ($15 monthly). The facility is open 5 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday-Thursday, 5 a.m. 6 p.m. Fridays, and 8 to 1 on Saturdays. It's closed Sundays during the summer.

The Ark City Rec Center can be reached at 441-4300.

* Ben Cleveland Wellness Center at Cowley College on Fifth Ave.

You could say director Gina McKown knows a thing or two about getting in shape: She's been working at the Wellness Center since its 1992 inception.

McKown said she will offer programs "as intensely as you want them."

The facility boasts a full-cardiovascular room, an aerobic circuit, a warm-up area, locker rooms, a free-weight room and walking track. Orientations are optional for members.

The center's goal is "to enhance a person's cardiovascular-respiratory endurance, muscle endurance, muscle strength and flexibility," according to McKown.

During the school year, the Wellness Center offers classes in weight training, Tae Kwon Do and aerobics.

McKown said the facility caters to the whole community and provides a lifetime learning program for senior citizens. Activities include exercise classes twice per week on Mondays and Wednesdays, stretching and yoga.

McKown, who has earned three degrees in biology and chemistry, said the facility's age limit is 14 and up because young children should be outside playing, "letting their bones and muscles grow first."

"Children's muscles can actually bend bones. The muscles get stronger than tendons, which does more harm than good," she added.

Memberships are available on a one-, three-, six- or 12-month basis. A single monthly membership costs $15 (only $13.50 for seniors) and $25 per family.

The Wellness Center is open 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. Monday-Thursday, 6 a.m. 8 p.m. Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday and 3 to 7 p.m. Sunday.

Above: FitZone owner Pat Simmons is pleased show off the new equipment in his 24-hour fitness center. The new facility on North Summit Street held its grand opening April 18.