Merrill Karate Club owner Jon Gartmann has added a new facet to his business with the opening of MKC fitness in the former Dorkfather’s building at 806 East First Street. MKC Fitness is located right next door to the karate club, which allows Gartmann to manage both businesses.
MKC Fitness allows for membership on a month to month basis, at $25 per month. You don’t need to be a member of the karate club to utilize MKC Fitness, although there is a discount for karate club members.
MKC Fitness features free weights, pulley machines and other equipment to provide a full workout.
“We have everything you need with no fluff,” Gartmann said. “You’re not paying for extra stuff you don’t need.”
Gartmann said he has wanted to open a gym in Merrill for several years. When Dorkfather’s moved out of the building next door to the Merrill Karate Club, Gartmann made a deal to rent the space. He purchased all the fitness equipment and, with the help of Tim Grund and Brock Rohde, now runs both the Merrill Karate Club and MKC Fitness.
MKC Fitness is open from 6 a.m.-8 p.m. Monday through Saturday. The business can be reached at 715-218-7596.