On January 21, Keldrick Wright, founder of Groove Theory Fitness (GTF), turned the “boutique activity” space’s grand opening and ribbon-cutting at 1809 Springfield Avenue into a joyous party worthy of his mantra “Every Body Moves”.
Wright, who is Maplewood resident, provided music, a full table of food, and invited scores of friends and family to witness the official ribbon-cutting for the operation. In attendance were Mayor Nancy Adams, Township Committee members Vic DeLuca and Dean Dafis, and Springfield Avenue Partnership Executive Director Nicole Wallace.
In a press release, Wright emphasized that the space is for “every body” — including kids, teens, seniors, and adults with disabilities. In fact, “Groove Theory Fitness’s mission is for the entire community to be able to find their groove within the plethora of activities and events offered” and includes “a variety of classes and fitness modalities where diverse and upbeat trainers, great music, good vibes, and contemporary atmosphere culminate to motivate, uplift, and inspire members towards reaching their ‘active body’ goals,” said Wright.
Photo by Morgan Triska
In 2014, Wright founded Wright Independent Life Options (WILO NJ), an agency providing residential and recreational services to adults who have intellectual and developmental disabilities.
“When I was originally approached about taking over the space, my initial idea was to create an amazing activity space for my WILO NJ residents. Along the renovation journey, I thought (in addition to that) I should create a space that’s inclusive to ALL of the community– a space that ties the diversity of the community together in a fun space centered around being active and grooving to music. Hence, Groove Theory Fitness was born.”
Wright is also partnering with instructor Martesse Gilliam to cultivate a GTF Martial Arts program launching in the Spring.
From the press release:
Design:
Groove Theory Fitness collaborated with Liz Curry Studio, an Architecture and Interior Design studio located in South Orange NJ, to create a boutique space that is elevated yet warm and inviting. GTF is not your typical fitness space. From the moment guests enter the space, they are greeted by style and bespoke design solutions. Throughout the space, guests will find elegant finishes, custom furniture, vibrant lighting, and multiple unique design elements that energize and inspire. The construction was executed by OP Construction who brought the vision to life.
Classes/Activities:
Groove Theory Fitness offers Salsa Lessons, Yoga, Zumba, Dance Fusion, HIIT/Curcuit Training, Fit Boxing, Boxing to the Beat, Barre Pilates inspired workouts, Kids Cardio/Yoga, Teen Cardio/Yoga, Senior Groovers, and Kids Martial Arts. GTF will also
offer activity-based birthday parties and fun social events.
Becoming a Groover:
Groove Theory Fitness welcomes you to a gem of a gym that’s ready to serve the community and get SoMa active in a fun and unique way! 1809 Springfield Ave, Maplewood. Download the Groove Theory Fitness App in the App Store to see our
class lineup and packages. Follow GTF on Facebook, TikTok, and Instagram @Groove Theory Fitness. You may also visit www.gtfmaplewood.com. Let the GROOVE movement begin! Instructors looking to be featured are welcome to contact us. 973-634- 4087. (photos by Aimee Ryan aimee@aimee.photos)
