Danny Federico
reporter3.riverbendnews@gmail.com
Years ago, David Wood posed an unexpected question to his wife, Rhonda: "How would you like to buy a gym?" Six years later, Wood's Family Fitness has become a staple in Suwannee County, serving as a hub for physical and mental wellness in the community.
The journey began with the support of Hannah Skinner, the gym's previous owner, who stayed on to help the Wood family navigate the transition. One of the most valuable assets they inherited was Morgan Loadholtz Adams, a dedicated employee who stayed on to assist while completing her college education. "Morgan was our most valuable asset during the transition," Rhonda said. "She taught me the ropes, and I depended on her heavily." When Adams left to pursue her career, Amanda Jordan stepped in to lend her expertise in fitness and nutrition.
David and Rhonda, both longtime residents of Suwannee County, have been active in the community since their youth. David made his mark as a standout athlete in wrestling, football and especially baseball, which he played at the college level. Their daughter, Leigh, followed in her parents' athletic footsteps, excelling in multiple sports at Suwannee High School, including golf, tennis, soccer and flag football.
Leigh, now a certified fitness instructor with a background in gymnastics, teaches several classes at Wood's Family Fitness alongside a dedicated team, including Amanda Jordan, Donna Long, Heather Bates and Kristy McWaters. Alan Bonds, David's best friend and Rhonda's brother-in-law, often greets visitors at the front desk, while Drew Land, another passionate supporter of Suwannee youth sports, rounds out the team.
Wood's Family Fitness is more than just a gym. It's a reflection of the Wood family's belief in the value of physical fitness and sports as essential to both mental and physical well-being. "You get out of it what you put into it," is a phrase that resonates deeply with them, highlighting the life lessons sports can teach—dedication, hard work, perseverance and character.
The gym actively supports Suwannee County youth sports, high school athletes, and former Bulldogs such as Sam McMillan, Jackson Greene, EJ Alvarez, Josh Wharton, Josh Braun, and Bo Bonds, all of whom continue to train there. Their success is a testament to the benefits of maintaining a strong foundation of fitness, and the gym's "wall of fame" proudly showcases members who have achieved greatness.
Wood's Family Fitness offers a full range of equipment, including machines, free weights, treadmills, stair steppers, ellipticals, rowing machines and recumbent bikes. The gym also features a 24-hour dry-heat sauna. For those seeking structured workouts, group fitness classes are also available, including Low Impact, Tabata, Yoga, Circuit Training and Senior Fit.
The Wood family believes in making fitness accessible and unintimidating for all members. They prioritize personal connections, greeting members by name and providing an encouraging, welcoming environment. While online sign-ups are not available, the gym encourages new members to visit for a tour, and most inquiries can be handled via phone or email.
"We are grateful to be part of the wonderful community of Live Oak," Rhonda said. "God has blessed us with a successful business, and we want to honor Him with it. It's genuinely a FAMILY place. We strive to extend friendliness, kindness and compassion to all who enter our doors."
Wood's Family Fitness is located at 1397 Ohio Ave. N, in Live Oak, and its doors are open 24 hours a day to help community members on their fitness journey.