I moved to the Black Mountain, NC area 4 years ago (2016). I had been working with a personal…read moretrainer in Atlanta, and I was anxious to find a gym near my new home. I visited a few "big box" gyms in Asheville and Black Mountain, then Ascending Fitness. I was immediately drawn to the small group cross training classes there (think physically safe, not like some other cross training places where injuries abound), but I doubted I could get as good a workout in a group vs. individually. Boy, was I wrong! After attending the group classes over a period of time, I realized I'd NEVER been stronger and in better shape (I'm a 62 yr. old woman, BTW), and the social aspect of a small group was fun and kept me motivated. I've been working out there 3 times a week ever since. The workouts are full body, including strength, balance, and aerobic. It's amazing how much Jim can work into 45 minutes. He also has a great library of online videos that use body weight and all kinds of household and hotel items to workout - very handy while we were all housebound due to Covid. If you're just starting out with a program, Jim also offers classes in balance and stability and "bridge" classes to transition from balance and stability to the full circuit training class. I can't say enough about the positive effects working out at Ascending Fitness brought/brings to me. All the creaky, sore joints and back are pain free now. 100% recommend this place!

I love working out at Ascending Fitness! The group exercise is small-limited to 8 people. Jim Frith…read moreis by far the best trainer I've ever worked with. He's extremely careful about injury prevention and knows how to train all ages and fitness capabilities. I got tired of packed gyms where I would lift weights and hope for the best. I did not want shoulder surgery like many of my friends were needing after their workout injuries. I've missed Jim and his wonderful clients during COVID. If you want a better quality of life, sign up now to have Jim assess you! You won't regret it!

I recently stayed in Black Mountain for vacation and was so impressed by this yoga studio! It's…read morelocated in a converted bank building with the original safe still inside (now I believe it has a sauna inside!). All the staff were helpful and friendly. I attended 4 classes and took advantage of the community acupuncture. The yoga room is incredibly beautiful and relaxing - with heated flooring!! Very clean and a range of classes for all levels. Would definitely seek this out on future trips!

What a nice experience I had at Black Mountain Yoga. Everyone was vert friendly and welcoming. They…read moretook my mat and placed it right in front of the instructor ( in a beautiful large room and on a heated floor!) The session was gentle but yet was an inclusive stretch for all areas. The session ended with a warm damp cloth infused with lavender to use during the final resting pose. You'll love Black Mountain Yoga! I've signed up for 8 more sessions

This was my first time doing the ee system. It's a room with 8 recliners. You just go in and relax…read morethen let the magic happen. I felt great afterward and will do it again.

I was excited to read about the opening of this studio. When I walked in, I was greeted by friendly…read morestaff and a clean, inviting atmosphere. I often do yoga exercises, but wanted to really challenge my core strength. The Advanced Pilates "fire" group class I took did just that. I let the instructor know before class that I endure a lot of pain from scoliosis and how certain exercises cause neck pain, and she provided safe and effective moves that left me feeling rejuvenated and without any pain. I've never felt that good after a chiropractic adjustment! I will definitely be going back.

We do pools...a lot. I am not opposed to a public pool though so after some research, I thought we…read morewould try this one. We couldn't have been more pleased. It's true, there aren't a ton of chairs but if you are willing to be patient, you'll get one. One thing to note is that they close the pool with lightning on the radar within a 10 mile radius. You just have to get out of the water for a minimum of 30 minutes. Lots of lifeguards and great decorations for July 4th. You can tell that they take pride in the pool. It was clean and the chairs were comfy, although the armrests do get hot in the sun so you can't always rest your arms on them. It certainly wasn't a dealbreaker. Great pool with the backdrop of the mountains and lake!

This park is urban in the relative sense, being surrounded by the residences of the town of Black…read moreMountain. It was a quality park. While views of the mountains are likely majestic, even on a cloudy day the misty sights were intriguing. A clean path runs around the lake, connecting bathroom facilities, tennis courts, and several other amenities. There were some dedicated parking spaces, but it was an easy walk from the town's business stretch as well. And why not, if you have the time?

I came with some friends to one of Katharine's classes, and although I've practiced yoga and been…read moreto different types of yoga classes, this was my first pilates class ever. It was awesome! Some of us (there were five) were veterans, having done this for years, and there I was, with no experience. Katharine managed to succinctly describe all the stretches and movements in such a way that I'm sure wouldn't feel repetitive or unnecessary for the experienced people but which gave me specific instructions regarding what I needed to do and how I needed to do it. The studio is clean, relaxing, and very inviting, and Katharine is very friendly. She is so interested in making sure that you get exactly what you need from the practice. I live about 45 minutes away, otherwise I'm certain I would become a regular! This is a real gem of a place, and I'm so pleased to know about it.

Katharine is a kind-hearted person with an amazing knowledge of how the body works, both inside and…read moreout. I've been delighted to have her as my guide at black mountain Pilates for many years. The studio is a tiny undiscovered gem in black mountain- a vintage dance studio just down the hill behind the dripolator. Check it out

I had a great workout. I felt stretched, moved, and destressed all at the same time! I am a…read moreregular now! Thanks Kara.

Please support the YWCA. I have attended both Having a trainer provide individual one on one…read moreassistance and have also attended groups that provided excellent information and assistance to me and others needed similar services

I joined the YWCA recently and I really like it. The pool is great and the shower /locker room area…read moreis clean and spacious. Everyone there is so friendly and helpful. I'm excited to try some of their group fitness classes soon.

Change you life!!! Elizabeth has expanded into NC. I feel the need to share some info about her…read morework that I don't think that she will. God/Spirit/Energy (whatever you call the higher being) works through her & in getting work done by her leaves you with a greater ability to maneuver through whatever you have going on in your life. You will be left refreshed and know that you are able to deal/cope with anything. Live Well People! When you need some help find Elizabeth, in Summerville, SC and now in Black Mountain NC too

From the owner: Illumina Sky Healing Arts provides Massage, Wellness, Healing and Yoga to the Black Mountain, NC…read morearea.