A new chapter is underway at O-Town Strength & Fitness, LLC, where owner Sam Sweet is transforming the former Build Your Temple location into a modern, community-focused fitness center right in the heart of Oxford.
Located at 186 South Washington Street next to Goodwill, the 8,000-square-foot facility has already undergone major upgrades since Sam officially took over earlier this year. “We’ve probably added $40,000 worth of equipment,” Sam said. “We’ve restructured, opened up the gym space, and upgraded software to operate the business more efficiently.” The investment continues, with even more equipment arriving soon, including stair steppers, cable machines, and strength-training equipment designed to give members a wider variety of workout options.
What makes O-Town Strength & Fitness stand out is its commitment to both affordability and accessibility. The gym offers 24/7 access through a key fob or phone entry system, allowing members to work out on their own schedules. Membership pricing has also been lowered from previous rates: standard memberships are $39.95 per month and discounted memberships for seniors, students, and first responders are $29.95. “I think we have really competitive rates,” Sam said. “We’re offering a lot of different options for people to get in here and try out the place.”
Beyond the gym floor, O-Town is expanding its offerings with yoga, kettlebell, and group fitness classes, along with personal training from four trainers who each specialize in different areas of fitness. Members also have access to shower facilities and multiple private bathrooms, making it convenient for those squeezing workouts into busy schedules.
Sam says supporting local businesses has been a major priority throughout the renovation process. From contractors and electricians to signage and supplies, he has intentionally worked with local companies whenever possible. “We’ve used pretty much all local people to do the work,” he said. “We’re kind of big on supporting local.”
The gym’s new signage, created by local Chamber member Orion Signs and Graphics, recently went up – a milestone Sam says made everything finally feel official.
O-Town Strength & Fitness will also host a Grand Reopening Celebration on June 6 from 10am to 1pm, featuring coffee, Sick Pizza, giveaways, drawings, and a Chamber ribbon cutting ceremony.
For now, Sam encourages anyone interested in joining to stop by the gym during staffed hours: 9 am to noon or 4 pm to 7 pm. Online signup options are expected soon.
“We’re really working hard to spruce this place up and make it available for the entire town,” Sam said. “People seem to really get along here, which has been great.” With new energy, upgraded equipment, and a strong focus on community, O-Town Strength & Fitness is helping Oxford build strength both inside and outside the gym.