^ back to top

club hours

Newington

Simsbury

New Britain

Vernon

Farmington

The hours of the clubs are subject to change.

Big Sky does close or change its hours for several holidays throughout the year so that our staff can be with their families. All such changes will be posted within the clubs, as well as on our social media accounts, several days prior to the holiday. 

If you’re on Facebook, be sure to “like” Big Sky to stay up to date on schedule changes, delayed openings, and class cancellations (due to winter storms), or just to connect with your fellow members!  http://www.facebook.com/BigSkyFitness

We love to share fun stuff on our Instagram page too, so make sure you follow us here – https://www.instagram.com/bigskyfitness/

^ back to top

what to bring

what should I wear ?

If you’re a member who hasn’t worked out in a while, or maybe never at all, what to wear may be a bit confusing. We understand that feeling, so maybe this can help.

Keep in mind that your workouts will be more fun and productive if you feel more comfortable in your workout clothes.

headwear:  nothing is required here. Most people wear either nothing or a baseball cap.

tops:  sweatshirts, T-shirts, long-sleeved workout shirts, tank tops, or sports bras are all acceptable as tops. T-shirts are the most comfortable and hence, probably the most popular. (However, for yoga, a slimmer fit is desirable so in those up-side-down poses you don’t get lost in your T!) 

bottoms:  sweats, baggy shorts, tights, bike shorts, and baggy pants are all acceptable. (One word of caution to the “40 something” guys: those short running shorts you wore when you ran track in high school… you may want to retire those.)

socks:  white socks or color-coordinated socks are usually your best bet. Most people wear them at either ankle height or just below the calf. (Again guys, those knee-high tube socks or black dress socks . . . you may want to re-think those too, but it’s totally up to you 🙂

shoes:  YES, you have to wear shoes (sorry). appropriate athletic shoes are recommended.  Street shoes, work boots, and sandals are discouraged.

clean:  hopefully this goes without saying, but clean clothes are a big plus. Stuffing yesterday’s gym clothes into your bag after you work out, only to have them re-appear today, will not win you any popularity contests!

jewelry, perfumes, and colognes:  none of these mix very well with working out.  Dangling earrings and jewelry can get caught in a moving piece of equipment. Remember that no one is here to impress anyone. Just relax and leave the valuables at home.

lock, towel(s), and personal hygiene products

We’d love to be able to assign everyone their own personal locker. However, with limited space, we’re unable to do so.

Most people bring a lock from home to protect their personal belongings while they’re working out. When they’re done for the day, they clear out the locker and bring all their things home.

For your workout, you may want to bring a small towel to wipe your face. (Paper towel dispensers are wall-mounted throughout the club, but those of us with sensitive skin may

prefer some terrycloth from home.)

If you plan on showering here, you’ll want to bring a towel. Soap, shampoo, and conditioner are provided in the showers… we have hair dryers for you as well.

membership card

Your membership card should have been given to you when you joined. If you didn’t receive one, or if you lose or damage yours, please ask for one at the Front Desk.

If you joined on-line, you’ll need to stop at the Front Desk when you come in for the first time and we’ll be happy to get you all set up.

To ensure that only members have access to the club, you’ll be asked to scan your card each time you enter the club.

^ back to top

getting started

who can help me?

If you know how to achieve your own goals, and you need no assistance from any of Big Sky’s Coaches, then you’re all set. Please let us know if you need anything.

However, if you’re like most new members here, you’ll want to schedule at least one session with a Personal Trainer. Some time with the trainers is included in the cost of your membership, so it just makes sense to spend a few minutes with them. At a minimum, 

45 minutes with one of Big Sky’s Coaches can SIGNIFICANTLY improve your “Fitness Time Management”.

Hopefully you scheduled your 1st session the day you joined. If not, just ask at the Front Desk and we can schedule that for you.

are they qualified?

Many clubs, unwilling or unable to make substantial investments in the education of their staff, offer trainers with a few hours of “in-house” training. Others hire trainers who complete modest “at home” certifications. And while many of these trainers and clubs have good intentions, their credentials, and their abilities to educate their members are limited.

The Trainers at Big Sky are amongst the best in the country. Selected from literally hundreds of applicants, the trainers here are formally educated, mature adults who are dedicated to the fitness profession. 

Your Coach will work with you, encouraging you to show up and stick with it. They’ll start out changing your body. They’ll likely end up changing your life.

how do I get started on the equipment?
If you didn’t set-up your first session the day you joined, it’s best if you call or stop by at the Front Desk to schedule one. Or you can email our Director of Coaching at coaching@nullbigskyfitness.com.

If you try to get help without an appointment, we’ll do our best to help you, but we may have pre-scheduled sessions ahead of you to complete first. Using a schedule enables us to provide everyone access to the Coaches (who are very much in demand).

When coming in to meet with your Coach, please be prompt. Their schedules can get very hectic, so they try their best to be respectful of everyone’s time by being punctual.

Please introduce yourself to the person at the Front Desk and let them know you’re waiting for your Coach. They’ll track them down for you within a few minutes.

get the most from your investment

Lastly, if you haven’t yet scheduled time with one of our Coaches, PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE do so. You made the investment and joined Big Sky because there’s something about your body you’d like to change. Get the most from your investment and your time. Spend 45 minutes with a Coach and find out why Big Sky’s most satisfied members are working with Personal Trainers.

We can help you make the changes you want to make . . . FAST… but only if you let us.

^ back to top

our x-factor coaching system

Big Sky’s X-factor Coaching System helps people to change their lives. It enables the Coaches to work with you, showing and teaching you how to change your body towards whatever goal you’d like.

How great would it be to see someone you haven’t seen in a while and have them tell you how different and fantastic you look? Is there an old pair of favorite jeans that you’d like to get back into? How about not having to be so self-conscious the next time you get invited to a pool party or out on a boat? What would it feel like to HAVE to go clothes shopping – for 2 sizes smaller than what you’re wearing right now? 

Maybe you’ve tried other things and been disappointed. Maybe the information you had was wrong for your genetic background, or maybe it just didn’t fit well enough into your busy life. The truth is that all the magazine articles, books, workout programs, menus and diets in the world are worthless if they can’t be applied to you and help you to get what you want.

It is possible. You can do it. We can help.

You don’t have to give up your favorite foods. You don’t have to workout 2 hours per day, 7 days per week to see a different person looking back at you from the bathroom mirror.

If you’re shown the right way to do things, you can work out as little as 45 minutes per day, 3 days per week. You’ll see a noticeable difference in yourself within 6 weeks, and often in as few as 3 weeks.  Your Coach will ensure that you reach your goals in the shortest amount of time possible, without wasting hours and hours in the gym making little or no progress.

Our system is scientifically based, it’s simple, and most importantly . . . it works!

Personal Training is not just for the celebrity or the serious athlete. You don’t have to be naturally athletic, rich, or famous. 

Personal Training is for everyone. For gym newbies to gym experts  

It’s for the young. For seniors. For everyone in between . . .

If you didn’t set-up your complimentary first session the day you joined, give us a call or stop by the Front Desk to schedule it. You can also email our Director of Coaching at coaching@nullbigskyfitness.com and he’ll help you get started.

We said it before, but it bears repeating.  

Big Sky’s Coaches are amongst the best in the country. Formally educated. Experienced. Genuinely good people who are great at what they do.

Allow yourself to trust them, follow their advice, and they will help you get Better Results… FASTER than you would on your own or anywhere else!

^ back to top

Defend Yourself Training (DYT)

The best way to get out of trouble is to NEVER get into it in the fist place. If something bad does come your way though, know how to better defend yourself and the people around you.

Using some basic principles of Krav Maga, MMA, kickboxing, and boxing, we’re able to help our clients have some fun and let out their “inner warriors”. We’re not trying to make anyone a black belt, but let’s be honest… some days it just feels good to HIT stuff!

Just like with the Personal Trainers, our DYT Coaches are trained and ready to help. Stop by the Front Desk or email our Director of Coaching at coaching@nullbigskyfitness.com to schedule a session with one of our amazing DYT Coaches… you won’t regret it!!

^ back to top

tanning

Whether you call it “electric beach”, “100 proof bronzing”, “the think tank” or just plain “soakin’ up the rays”, you can get a deep, dark, beautiful tan at Big Sky Newington or Big Sky New Britain.

If you’re seeing them for the first time, you might describe tanning beds as “coffin-like” and a bit intimidating. Try one, though, and you’ll know right away that you’re immersing yourself into an environment of cozy warmth and instant relaxation. 

Some time just for you, to just drift away . . . 

Tan your skin. Refresh your body. Soothe your mind. 

Talk with any one of Big Sky’s team members at the Front Desk to set yourself up with some quiet time. Tanning sessions are available individually or on an unlimited monthly basis. The beds are available on a “first come – first served” basis. You’ll be set-up for anywhere from 10 to 20 minutes, depending on the fairness of your skin and whether or not you’ve got a base tan.

Don’t forget the protective eyewear! If you don’t have any of your own, they’re available for purchase at the Front Desk.

Big Sky Unlimited Tanning is available for only $10 to $29 per month.

^ back to top

group classes

Come rock out and sweat it out with some of the best Group Fitness instructors in CT!

No need to sign up ahead of time, just show up!  There’s a class for EVERYONE, EVERY SINGLE day! Come on and groove with us! 

The schedules are available here:  https://bigskyfitness.com/group-x/#schedules

Some of the classes are more in demand than others, so space is sometimes limited. For these classes, we recommend you arrive 10-15 minutes early to increase your chances of getting a spot. (Attendance for classes is on a first-come, first-served basis.)

^ back to top

massage therapy

Members of Big Sky Vernon have an added benefit of having massage therapy available on the premises.  We believe that massage therapy is not only a luxury but can also be a powerful component in everyone’s healthcare and fitness regimen.  

Receiving massage therapy on a regular basis can have a significant positive impact on your health. Relax and enjoy a one-hour massage from one of our CT Licensed Massage Therapists! 

Learn more about massage here: https://bigskyfitness.com/massage/

Ask our Front Desk staff about our Massage Advantage program which can help you set up your massages on a regular basis, at a price that won’t break the bank.

You can also also reach the Massage Team at massagebigsky@nullyahoo.com.

^ back to top

family activities

The activities available to your children are as illustrated below:

Children under the age of 13 are not allowed on the fitness floor and they are not able to participate in group-x classes. They are permitted in the club only when their parent or guardian is also in the club and must be under the direct supervision of a parent, guardian, Swim Coach or Tennis Pro if located anywhere other than the kids’ club.

The Kids’ Club is staffed by loving, caring people who are either experienced Moms or students   pursuing a degree. Learn more here: https://bigskyfitness.com/kids-club/

The hours for this area are posted on the Group Fitness Schedule available at the Front Desk, or on the individual club webpages here:

Newington:  https://bigskyfitness.com/newington/

Simsbury:  https://bigskyfitness.com/simsbury/

New Britain:  https://bigskyfitness.com/new-britain/

Vernon:  https://bigskyfitness.com/vernon/

Farmington:  https://bigskyfitness.com/farmington/

^ back to top

swim lessons

Big Sky – Farmington’s Swimming & Water Safety Lessons are available as Small Group 

(3-6), Semi-private (2-on-1), or Private (1-on-1) sessions. The lessons are structured for children ages 6 months and older.

Learn more here:  https://bigskyfitness.com/swimming/

Big Sky’s “Flying Fish” Swim Team

The “Flying Fish” is Big Sky’s year-round competitive swim team, offering instruction for children of all ability levels, ages 5 and up. Our goal is to introduce kids to the sport of competitive swimming, and all four of the competitive swim strokes. Every child is taught how to improve their swimming skills, and they get to experience success at their own pace. 

Learn more here:  https://bigskyfitness.com/swimteam/

^ back to top

tennis

Whether you’d like to learn the game of tennis, play recreationally, or compete on one of our (25) USTA league teams, this is a family-friendly atmosphere where adults and kids alike get to enjoy and love this great game!

Lessons. Clinics. Matches. As experienced and dedicated professionals, Big Sky’s certified Tennis Pros are good people who are easy to work with. Learn cutting-edge positioning, proper techniques, and strategy to improve your game… at any age or skill level.

More Information on Adult Tennis

More Information on Junior Tennis

^ back to top

summer camp

Big Sky Farmington offers fitKIDS summer camps for children ages 3 – 12. Enrollment is open to children of members and non-members and there are both half and full day options available. 

Learn more about summer camp here:  https://bigskyfitness.com/summercamp/

^ back to top

no pockets charge account
If it’s helpful for you, set-up a pre-paid charge account so that you can purchase anything at anytime, even if your purse or wallet is at home or in the car. There are no set-up fees, and you can start with as little as $25.

It takes only 2 minutes to set-up the account. Just ask any member of the Front Desk Team (we call them the Extreme Team) and they’ll get you started.

^ back to top

big sky blendz shakes 

Big Sky Blends are THE BEST shakes EVER… 

we literally guarantee* it!

Fuel up, recover, or replace unhealthy meal choices with one of our protein rich Big Sky Blendz! Made with real fruit, juice, skim or almond milk, and plenty of essential vitamins.

There are over 90 shakes on our menu, so if you’re looking to bulk-up, lean out, or just grab a snack, we’ve got you covered! For a scrumptious low-calorie option, try our Berry Slim at only 275 calories, or the popular Peanut Butter Dream at just 305 calories. We even make kids Blendz! 

We guarantee* you’ll love them. Come in and try for yourself!!

*Big Sky’s Shake Guarantee: We’ll make you any shake you want, but if for some reason you’re unhappy with it, we’ll make you another shake of your choice – for FREE!

^ back to top

healthy snacks

You’re not alone if you’ve got a hectic, sometimes stressful lifestyle that can lead to some pretty strange eating habits. And, have you noticed how frustrating it can be wandering through the grocery store, hoping to find snacks that are actually good for you without tasting like recycled cardboard ?

We know how you feel. That’s why Big Sky stocks a variety of healthy snack alternatives.  They’re good for you, they taste great, and they’ll get you through your mid-morning, mid-afternoon, or after dinner cravings. We usually recommend trying a few different bars to find one or two that you really like.  Once you know which are your favorites, pick-up a couple of boxes for home and work. Guilt-free snacking.

^ back to top

big sky locations

Big Sky offers a variety of memberships for both students and adults.  Some membership options even allow you to use all five Big Sky locations (Newington, Simsbury, New Britain, Vernon, & Farmington).  If you have an interest in using more than one location, and you’re not sure what your membership allows, just check in at the front desk and we’ll be happy to look it up for you.

^ back to top

music & tv’s

In an environment like this, choosing what type of music to play, and at what volume level, can be very difficult. As with any large group of people, there is always a broad range

of interests and requests. So, to best accommodate everyone, you’ve got several choices. 

The music played at Big Sky (other than what’s used in the Group Fitness and Spinning classes) is our own in-house, customized mix.  It’s a combination of rock, “top 40” and alternative, CD quality, with no commercial interruptions. The “Big Sky Mix” is over 800 songs (none longer than 4 minutes) and is updated every 3 – 4 months.  

If there’s something you’d like to hear, drop a note in the suggestion box at the Front Desk. We always welcome your courteous input!

There are plenty of TV’s located around the club for your entertainment. We try to have most of them set to different stations so there’s plenty of variety. Some are set up with “Big Sky TV” – motivating messages to inspire… and sometimes just to make you laugh 😜

If you’re using cardio equipment, you’ve got more options. Just plug in with your own set of headphones and choose from several options as to what you watch, and at what volume.

And your last option, of course, is you can just listen to the music of your choice from your phone.

If you have any questions on any of this, just ask anyone on the Big Sky team. 

^ back to top

membership changes

As it explains on your copy of your membership agreement, all membership changes are handled by Big Sky’s billing company, ABC Fitness. 

If you have any questions, or need to change any of your account information, please email ABC directly at customercare@nullabcfitness.com.

^ back to top

bringing in a guest

You have two choices when it comes to bringing guests. Every Big Sky membership includes FREE GUESTS*. That means that you can bring one guest any time you come in, and each of your guests can have one free visit per calendar month. So, if you have 30 different friends you could bring a different one every single day!!

If you’d like to bring someone in multiple times a month, if you haven’t already done so, you can add Unlimited Guests* to your membership. That means that you can bring in the same person as often as you’d like. Just stop by the front desk to update your membership the next time you’re in.
 
And the best part about bringing a friend is that when one of your guests joins Big Sky (with a 12+ month membership), you’ll BOTH get a FREE MONTH**!  We call that a win-win 😀

*all guests must be accompanied by a member and must sign in at the front desk every time they visit. Max of 1 free guest per member each day.

**referring members can choose between one free month or $25 to a “no pockets” prepaid charge account.

^ back to top

how to be a great member !

The gym can be a confusing place when you first start.

It’s not unusual to be concerned about learning to fit into the gym environment.

How do I share machines with someone?

Are there any restrictions on using the cardio equipment?

What do I do if I don’t like something?

These are common questions lots of members ask during their first month or two. While a lot of information has been covered throughout this handbook, let’s take a few minutes to answer some other common questions.

Question:  How do I work in on the resistance equipment?

Answer:  If you would like to share equipment with another member, simply ask 

“Can I work in?”.  When you take your turn, finish your set or exercise in a timely manner and then allow others to share.  A common rookie mistake is to use a piece of equipment and then rest on it between sets. This doesn’t allow others to share and can slow down the pace of someone else’s workout.  To rest, remove yourself from the piece you are using and be aware that others may wish to use the piece or bench that you’re camped out on.

Question:  Are there any restrictions on using the cardio equipment?

Answer:  No. There are no restrictions. We don’t set time limits on the equipment, but we do ask that everyone use a little common sense and courtesy when it comes to setting their workout time.

We recommend that you match your use to the time of day and the piece you’re on at the time. The clubs’ busiest times are weekdays from 5pm to 7:30pm, and weekend mornings from 8:30am to 11am.  If you want a fast 30 minutes on cardio, anytime is fine. However, if you prefer a long hour walk on a treadmill, we suggest you come in a little before or a little after the busiest hours. (Of course, you can come in anytime you like. We’re just making a suggestion to help take pressure off the demand for equipment at the clubs’ busiest times.)

Question:  What do I do if I don’t like something?

Answer:  The team at Big Sky is always happy to welcome polite complaints. We know that if you didn’t care, you wouldn’t take the time to let us know.

You will find a “big ideas” box on the front counter at each club. We welcome your compliments, concerns, suggestions, opinions, family secrets and dad jokes 😉.  

The box is emptied at least once a week and every comment received gets serious consideration.

A few things we could use YOUR help with:

• As a courtesy to other members, please wipe off the equipment after exercising on it. There are spray bottles and paper towels positioned around the club.

• Spray the paper towels in your hand and then wipe down the equipment. Please do not spray the equipment directly. (Moisture can damage the computer boards and cause the equipment frames to rust.)

• Please keep your hands and feet away from all moving parts and weight stacks.

• Do not attempt to repair or adjust any equipment that has malfunctioned. Please report any equipment problems immediately to the Front Desk.

• Please return all free weight plates, dumbbells, and functional equipment to their proper places on the racks when you’re finished using them.

• As a courtesy to the staff, please exit the facility by closing time.

• Please treat other members and the staff with courtesy and respect at all times.

In closing, we’d like to again say “welcome” and THANK YOU for choosing to be a part of Big Sky.

We look forward to seeing you, and if there is anything we can do to make your experience at Big Sky more enjoyable, please let any one of us know.

^ back to top