The CFCA story
Stronger together since 2010
Every great community starts with an idea. For Community Fitness of Cape Ann (CFCA), that idea began in the basement of a local YMCA, where founder Jon Conant envisioned something different from the traditional gym experience.
There were no rows of machines or repetitive routines. Instead, Jon built CFCA around constantly varied, functional workouts designed to help people move better, get stronger, and be prepared for whatever life throws their way. His philosophy was simple: "Routine is the enemy."
With the support of his wife, Karen, who created CFCA's original branding and the memorable "Keep It Tight" motto, the foundation was set for something more than a gym. It was a community built on challenge, support, and continuous growth.
Humble beginnings
CFCA officially opened its doors in 2010 at 7 Parker Street in Gloucester. The early days were anything but fancy. Workouts often moved outdoors, equipment was simple, and creativity filled the gaps. Barbells, kettlebells, rowers, medicine balls, and plenty of hard work became the tools of choice.
One of the gym's early mantras captured its philosophy perfectly: "You are the machine."
From day one, CFCA focused on coaching, proper movement, and meeting people where they were in their fitness journey. Whether someone was stepping into a gym for the first time or training for competition, the goal was the same: show up, work hard, and get a little better every day.
More than a Gym
As membership grew, CFCA moved to Sargent Street in 2012, where friendships formed, goals were achieved, and a strong sense of community took root. Members supported one another through workouts, milestones, and life's challenges both inside and outside the gym.
The community persevered through the COVID-19 pandemic with virtual and outdoor training before relocating to its current home at 7 Railroad Avenue in 2022.
More than 16 years after opening its doors, CFCA remains what Jon and Karen originally envisioned: a place where people become stronger, more confident, and more capable both inside and outside the gym.
Through changing locations, new ownership, and evolving programming, one thing has never changed: the people.
The Next Era
Brandie and Wes have always shared a love for staying active. Brandie has been a runner and yogi for most of her adult life, while Wes has enjoyed mountain biking, cycling, and a variety of other sports. Together, they love spending time on the water and hiking in the mountains. They're also proud parents of three kids, ranging from teenagers to young adults.
Before moving to Gloucester two years ago, they were part of a thriving functional fitness gym in Knoxville, Tennessee. They quickly realized that one of the things they missed most about Knoxville wasn't just the workouts, but the gym community they had come to love.
Now, they're excited for the opportunity to lead CFCA into its next chapter. Their goal is to build on what makes this gym special while creating a welcoming, supportive place where fitness is approachable, effective, and sustainable for all ages and abilities. Most importantly, they want CFCA to be a place that reflects the incredible community of Cape Ann.
