After 35 years in business, long-time Spokane Valley-based supplier of Nordic ski gear, bikes, and other fitness gear, Fitness Fanatics, will permanently close. Owner Robin DeRuwe made the announcement, which was met with sadness by many in the Spokane outdoors community, in late February. “It’s time to explore a new chapter and get out from behind the desk to spend more time doing the one thing I have enjoyed offering to our customers, A Life Lived Outdoors,” says DeRuwe.
Fitness Fanatics opened its doors in a non-descript building on East Trent back in 1989, selling a wide array of in-line skates that offered a perfect fit for the proximity to the Centennial Trail and the fast-growing sport of inline skating. As the business evolved, the addition of Nordic ski equipment plus bikes and gear for cycling enthusiast and triathletes made Fitness Fanatics one of the premier shops for top-of-the-line gear and expertise. Fitness Fanatics has enjoyed a long-standing relationship with the Nordic ski and triathlon communities and DeRuwe has been an avid supporter of events and organizations that create awareness for all the things Spokane has to offer these groups and their participants.
Running a retail business for 35 years has been very demanding and enjoyable, says DeRuwe, with the best part being the lasting friendships created. While she looks forward to traveling to many of the places her customers have shared with her through stories and photos, she says, “I will miss this amazing family of people and connecting them to great gear.” DeRuwe plans to stay in the community and looks forward to staying connected to those friends for a shared ride or enjoying the first snowfall on the Nordic trails.
Fitness Fanatics will offer clearance pricing on all equipment, gear and apparel starting March 1, with plans to officially close the shop’s doors on March 31.
Cover photo courtesy of Robin DeRuwe
