The workout spot on the third floor of the Marketplace is now called ‘Hardware Abs.’
'Hardware’ refers to the gym's owners, the Bertolinos and the Swans, the founders and operators of St. John Hardware. (originally I wrote they were the founders, but in a comment Wilson Roberts corrected me.
"They bought St. John Hardware from Hardware Bob and his wife some years ago," Roberts wrote. "They did maintain Hardware Bob's tradition of high prices, but they added stock and a more reliable restocking policy, tore down the old building, which housed a gym in addition to the hardware store, and moved all to the new Marketplace."
We remember Hardware Bob, who was of course the only game in town. He was a nice guy but his inventory was quite limited. Behind his counter was his faithful dog, a German Shepherd I believe. The Bertolinos and the Swans had vision when they bought Bob's ramshackle building and business, and their success is well deserved.
The swans and the Bertolinos/Swans expanded the small gym to become Gym in Paradise. Recently, they sold it, but – well, the deal didn’t work out. So, they’re back in the exercise business.
The Islandia Real Estate blog says the place has been spruced up, the equipment maintained and working well, and the monthly dues are $65. BTW, the yoga room is available for rent (party anyone?)
No no no no no. The Bertolinos and the Swanns are NOT the founders of St. John Hardware. They bought St. John Hardware from Hardware Bob and his wife some years ago. They did maintain Hardware Bob’s tradition of high prices, but they added stock and a more reliable restocking policy, tore down the old building, which housed a gym in addition to the hardware store, and moved all to the new Marketplace.
Great! Now I can get huge arms!
Can’t wait to check it out in 2 weeks. Hope they do weeklys as well.
Anyone know if this place has a sauna or steamroom???
Anyone know if they have a horizontal machine?
Good to hear! Hope someone on island is offering ZUMBA when I get there in Dec. TXgalSAM 🙂