When the Educational Services Commission of New Jersey (ESCNJ) Aquatics and Fitness Center expanded its facility, the goal was clear: create a modern, inclusive wellness space that could serve an entire community from early-morning educators to active older adults and evening families.
The result was a thoughtfully designed, two-level, approximately 19,000-square-foot fitness center equipped with a comprehensive mix of SportsArt cardio and strength solutions.
From self-powered treadmills to integrated tech systems, SportsArt has been a consistent partner for ESCNJ, helping deliver both performance and accessibility in the new facility.
From Limited Space to Full-Service Fitness
Before the expansion, ESCNJ’s fitness offering was modest — limited cardio equipment, free weights and minimal strength training capabilities. The new facility — made possible through grant funding, — dramatically expanded both the physical footprint and the scope of services.
“We only had a few ellipticals and some free weights before,” said Christine Kurceski, the Health and Wellness Coordinator at ESCNJ. “Now we’re able to offer a full range of equipment and programming for our entire community.”
Today, the center serves over 3,400 members and caters to a wide demographic from seniors and school staff to families and youth athletes.
Designed for Everyone
Working as a SportsArt partner, Fitness Lifestyles — a fitness equipment store based in New Jersey — led the design and equipment selection process, collaborating closely with ESCNJ stakeholders to create a layout that supports diverse user needs.
“We had multiple meetings, developed layouts and really focused on how people would use the space,” said Ric Flagg, the vice president of commercial at Fitness Lifestyles. “The goal was simple: when someone walks in, there’s something for everybody.”
That vision is reflected in the facility’s layout:
- Mezzanine cardio cove: Features SportsArt treadmills, ellipticals and cycles equipped with intuitive SENZA technology.
- Main level training floor: Includes a mix of selectorized strength, plate-loaded equipment and functional training stations.
- Additional cardio zone: Includes SportsArt ECO-NATURAL self-powered treadmills and cycles.
Whether a user is training for performance or simply looking for a comfortable place to begin their fitness journey, the environment is designed to meet them where they are.
Technology That Enhances Engagement
A key component of the installation is the integration of SportsArt’s SA WELL+ system, which enables user tracking, equipment connectivity and a more personalized workout experience.
“The platform allows members to track their workouts and stay engaged with their progress,” noted Flagg. “It adds another layer of value beyond the equipment itself.”
With 24 connected units and a full cardio network, the system helps bridge the gap between facility programming and user accountability.
A Balanced Equipment Mix
The ESCNJ facility features a comprehensive selection of SportsArt equipment, including:
- SENZA cardio line: 12 treadmills, six ellipticals, and multiple upright and recumbent cycles.
- ECO-NATURAL equipment: Self-powered treadmills, ellipticals and cycles for energy-efficient operation.
- Strength training: A full range of selectorized machines, plate-loaded units and functional trainers.
- Specialty equipment: Includes an upper-body ergometer and assisted training stations.
This combination ensures the facility can support everything from general fitness and rehabilitation to athletic training and group programming.
Strong Member Response and Ongoing Support
Since opening, member feedback has been overwhelmingly positive.
“The majority of people really enjoy the equipment,” said Kurceski. “There haven’t been many complaints at all, and we’ve built a great relationship with Fitness Lifestyles. They’re very responsive and provide quarterly maintenance, which is huge for us.”
The installation itself also went smoothly once the building was ready, with Fitness Lifestyles completing the project over several days without issue.
Sustainability as a Brand Value
While ESCNJ didn’t install ECO-POWR generating equipment, sustainability still played a role in the decision-making process.
“They were aware of the sustainability aspect,” said Flagg. “Even without ECO-POWR, SportsArt’s overall commitment to sustainability and forward-thinking design contributed to their confidence in the brand.”
The inclusion of ECO-NATURAL self-powered equipment reinforces that commitment while aligning with the facility’s operational needs.
Supporting Community Wellness
Beyond equipment, the ESCNJ Aquatics and Fitness Center serves as a true community hub, offering personal training, group classes, youth athletic development, and dryland training for swim teams and sports organizations.
“Our trainers use the equipment with their clients, and we also have groups like athletic teams coming in for training,” said Kurceski. “It’s really become a space for everyone.”
A Partner in Performance
For SportsArt, installations like ESCNJ reflect a broader mission to support facilities that prioritize accessibility, performance, and long-term value.
“Facilities today need to serve diverse communities with equipment that’s durable, intuitive, and adaptable,” said Ruben Mejia, the executive vice president of SportsArt Americas. “At ESCNJ, the combination of thoughtful design, connected technology and a wide range of training options creates an environment where every member can succeed.”
