Arleta and her husband Dave Kentopp discovered the Anytime Fitness business opportunity online. They were interested enough to contact the franchisor, then did some additional research and visited with the company’s founders before deciding this was an opportunity worth taking a risk for. They opened their first club in December of 2003, which Arleta continues to manage, and have followed with two more clubs in Lincoln. Anytime Fitness is the largest co-ed fitness franchise in the world and the world’s fastest growing fitness chain. Their 70th and Pioneers Blvd. location was the ninth franchise location sold. Now there are over 1600 locations open. They offer 24 hour convenience and the best fitness equipment in a friendly, motivating atmosphere.
What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally?
Starting a new kind of business in Lincoln that was unknown to our customers and then an unproven concept. When we signed on there were only six Anytime Fitness clubs open – all in Minnesota.
What has been your most important achievement professionally?
I have been able to make a difference in people’s lives, helping them achieve their fitness goals and attain better health.
Tell us a little about your family.
My husband Dave and I have been married almost 34 years. We have two wonderful daughters, Susan and Stephanie, a great son-in-law, and now the most precious grandson.
What do you see as one of the biggest turning points in your life?
Going into business for myself.
What is your favorite thing to do on a day off?
Cook and bake and spend time with my family.
What is the most unique or interesting thing about you that most people probably don’t know?
I like to hunt ducks!
What are you the most proud of?
My family.
What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
To always tell the truth.
What is the one goal you would most like to accomplish?
Someday I would like to be able to retire and travel with my Husband.
How would your friends describe you?
Hardworking, compassionate about my convictions, and sometimes a little crazy.
What is your greatest talent that you don’t utilize in your daily work life?
I was previously a professional wedding cake designer.
Which talent would you most like to have?
I’d like to be a great photographer.
If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be?
I would like to have a little more patience.
What is your favorite book or the last good book you read?
The last good book I read was John Adams by David McCullough.
What is your favorite movie?
Way too many to pick a favorite…anything old and in black and white.
What is your favorite TV show?
NCIS
What is your favorite Lincoln restaurant?
DQ Grill & Chill. (Maybe I’m a little biased towards my son-in-law Karl!)
If you could have dinner with one famous person from the past or present, who would it be?
John Adams. He so desperately wanted our country to succeed.
If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so?
Email us at lincoln@anytimefitness.com, or call (402) 488-7777. Also, visit us online at www.anytimefitness.com.