The Performance Zone, founded and operated by Grant Kelley, is a specialized offsite branch of the Sports Center of Morehead City. Serving our community since 1987, Sports Center is a fullservice 24/7 health and fitness center offering expansive weight rooms, two Olympic-sized pools, nursery services, senior programming, as well as basketball, racquetball, and pickleball facilities.
The Performance Zone focuses on high-quality programming in both a 1 on 1 and energizing peer group settings. Catering to both adults and aspiring youth and athletes (through college), the program targets foundational and sports specific performance training. The two facilities work together to provide a performance-based approach to fitness for athletes and non-athletes alike. Whether you're a veteran athlete or want to begin your fitness journey in 2025, Performance Zone and the Sports Center are the perfect places to start!
Q: WHAT ARE YOUR TOP THREE NON-NEGOTIABLES FOR LIVING A FULFILLING LIFE THROUGH FITNESS?
GK: 1. Consistency over perfection. Show up consistently-results come from steady progress, not from perfection.
2. Strength training. Building strength is foundational for injury prevention, longevity and overall confidence. It's not just for athletes; it benefits everyone.
3. Daily movement. Whether it's walking, mobility work or structured exercise, moving your body every day is essential for your physical and mental well-being.
Q: WHAT ADVICE DO YOU HAVE FOR SOMEONE WANTING TO START THEIR FITNESS JOURNEY, BUT AREN'T SURE WHERE TO BEGIN?
GK: 1. Start small and simple. Don't overthink it-begin with two to three workouts per week, focusing on fundamental movements like squats, pushes and pulls.
2. Find a support system. Join a community (like PZ and the Sports Center!) or hire a coach to provide guidance, encouragement and accountability.
3. Celebrate small wins. Progress happens one step at a time. Focus on what you can do today and recognize every improvement along the way.
4. Keep it fun. The social aspect and tight-knit culture make gyms more fun than training alone. If it isn't fun, you aren't going to stick with it.
Try out this at-home circuit from Grant:
This workout requires no equipment and focuses on strength, mobility and stability - all key components for functional movement and overall fitness (no matter your fitness level!).
- Bodyweight Squats - 12 Reps
- Push-Ups - 10 Reps
- Reverse Lunges - 8 Reps per leg
- Plank Shoulder Taps - 10 Taps per side
- Run in Place - 60 seconds
Rest for 60 seconds, repeat for 3-4 rounds.
PERFORMANCE ZONE: @SCPERFORMANCEZONE • 3205-A BRIDGES STREET, MOREHEAD CITY
SPORTS CENTER: @SPORTSCENTERMOREHEAD • 701 N. 35TH STREET, MOREHEAD CITY
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