“Revolutionizing Wellness: A Fresh Take on Lifestyle Spaces Beyond the Gym”

“It resembles a country club devoid of a golf course,” expressed Natalie Bushaw, vice president of corporate communications and public relations at Life Time, when describing the latest site of the nationwide health and wellness brand. Life Time has recently broadened its presence by inaugurating its North Druid Hills facility, marking the eighth Life Time in Atlanta and the inaugural one in DeKalb County.

“Entering the premises certainly doesn’t give the impression of stepping into a gym,” Bushaw noted, “and indeed, it isn’t a gym; it’s far greater.” She mentioned that members are welcomed at a concierge desk, where they can discuss their objectives for the visit and devise a strategy.

The new Life Time stands on the 8-acre property of the previous Athletic Club Northeast, once recognized as “Atlanta’s most exclusive athletic country and racquet club, serving the intense consumer demand for elite health, wellness, and social experiences for individuals, couples, and families,” according to Life Time’s announcement regarding the new venue, which opened in mid-December.

Some former members of the previous Athletic Club Northeast have transferred to the new Life Time facility and are delighted with the modern, cutting-edge amenities, as noted by Tara Esmiel, the lead general manager of the location. “We’re thrilled to introduce this high-caliber lifestyle facility to the community.”

Life Time refers to the North Druid Hills venue as “an impressive, one-level, 65,000-square-foot indoor club, enriched with outdoor areas designed for relaxation and racquet activities. The resort-like outdoor section features a beach club and pool deck, complete with a lavish recreational pool, private cabanas and chairs, and a café.”
Additionally, there is a five-lane indoor lap swimming pool alongside a courtside lounge and bar for spectators and post-match gatherings.

The establishment provides 12 outdoor racquet sport courts for both pickleball and tennis. “The former Athletic Club Northeast was renowned for its tennis facilities, and we aim to maintain that legacy,” Bushaw stated. “Pickleball gained popularity during the pandemic and continues to be in demand.” There are also three indoor pickleball courts.

Inside, there is an expansive fitness area equipped with what Life Time describes as “industry-leading cardiovascular and strength-training equipment, free weights, and kettlebells,” along with “five boutique studios dedicated to barre, cycling, group fitness, hot and conventional yoga, and Pilates, showcasing Life Time’s unique class offerings. Furthermore, there are designated areas for its signature group training programs, Alpha, GTX, and UltraFit. In total, nearly 150 classes led by some of Atlanta’s finest instructors will be available weekly.”

While parents benefit from the facility, their children can engage in activities at Kids Academy, which offers specially designed classes and programs for kids aged 3 months to 11 years. “This is an exceptionally secure area,” Bushaw emphasized. “No one may enter or exit without proper authorization. Parents need not worry about their children venturing out and exploring other areas of the facility.”

At LifeCafe, members can enjoy meals or snacks, featuring a build-your-own bowl option and ready-to-go selections. They have the convenience to order food from anywhere within the facility. “For instance, if someone completes a workout and wishes to eat, they can place an order and have it prepared and waiting at LifeCafe when they arrive,” Bushaw remarked. LifeCafe also offers a range of nutritional supplements.

“Since we entered the Georgia market in 2006, we have witnessed significant growth in the demand for our Life Time services. The launch of North Druid Hills further fulfills this need and continues to elevate our offerings with enhanced social, training, recovery, leisure and relaxation experiences it provides,” stated Parham Javaheri, president of Club Operations and chief of Property Development. “With this launch, along with our recent multi-million-dollar renovation at Peachtree Corners and the upcoming 2025 opening at Perimeter—another site we acquired and are converting into a premier Life Time destination—we are continuing to expand our portfolio in diverse ways.”