New UFC FIT center comes to Puyallup; meatballs and more await diners in Lakewood
Just in time for Pierce County’s move to Phase 2, UFC GYM, a brand extension of UFC mixed martial arts organization, announced the launch of its new UFC FIT concept with the first-ever location opening in Puyallup.
The site, 307 37th Ave. SE, Puyallup, was set to open Jan. 30.
With the move to Phase 2, gyms and restaurants in King, Pierce, Thurston, Grays Harbor, Lewis, Snohomish and Pacific counties can reopen to indoor activity at 25 percent capacity, among other loosened restrictions, as of Feb. 1.
The $5 million, 38,000-square-foot facility features a group fitness studio, weight room, cardio equipment, Olympic-size swimming pool, sauna room, full-service locker room, post-workout treatment area and indoor basketball court, according to UFC’s news release.
“All members will have access to a one-stop shop for any and all fitness needs including studio-quality group fitness classes such as Les Mills BodyPump, HIIT, Water Aerobics, Zumba and MMA-inspired group fitness classes such as Boxing and Kickboxing Conditioning,” the release stated.
It also will offer programs for kids ages 6 through 15 along with a child care service.
“This is a very exciting time for us at UFC GYM as we launch UFC FIT in Puyallup,” UFC GYM President Adam Sedlack said in the release. “The new, 38,000-square-foot gym is a unique concept that allows guests to experience the benefits of multiple boutique fitness classes all under one roof. From boxing and indoor cycling to Zumba and yoga, there’s truly something for everyone at this premium location.“
Following Washington state guidelines, UFC FIT is preparing to open at limited capacity.
It says it will offer “detailed cleaning schedules, increased cleaning stations, socially distanced equipment, proper facial covering, signage to communicate safety practices, temperature screenings, and more.”
For more information on member rates, visit www.ufcfit.com/locations/puyallup/ or call 253-432-8322. Hours are 5 a.m.-11 p.m. Monday-Friday and 7 a.m.-8 p.m. on the weekends.
MANIC MEATBALLS IN LAKEWOOD
Fans of IKEA’s famous Swedish meatballs will find lots to love at a new fast-casual restaurant in Lakewood near Joint Base Lewis-McChord.
Carrie Stalder and family opened Manic Meatballs at 14815 Union Ave. SW in Tillicum the day after Christmas. It is located off Interstate 5 just blocks from the Madigan Army Medical Center.
The restaurant and drive-thru is open daily, 11 a.m.-9 p.m.
The menu focuses on, of course, meatballs, based on recipes from her husband’s Swedish family. Choices include a blend of pork and beef ($8 for six plus a side), chicken and apple or vegan Impossible. There are bacon-wrapped meatballs, meatball sandwiches ($12 with two sides) and meatball poutine to pair with traditional American sides — mashed potatoes, fries, coleslaw, green beans, mac and cheese. Also included: a tangy cucumber salad with red onions and homemade applesauce.
After years of making meatballs at home, Stalder thought there must be a better way.
“I wish you could buy them,” she recalled. “We are the ones that are supposed to sell them!”
This story was originally published February 1, 2021 at 5:15 AM.
