For many residents residing in McFarland, consistent access to a gym has been limited by cost, distance, and availability. When Anvros Gym opened in March of 2024, founders Juan Pruneda, Arturo Perez, Gerardo Cano, and Sam Alonso set out to serve residents who face such logistical barriers to prioritizing their health.
The founders of Anvros Gym recognized the barriers that the community faces in search for fitness facilities. Membership fees, training costs, and a lack of nearby facilities can create challenges. In response, the gym was designed to be an accessible space that prioritizes affordability while still offering professional equipment and support.
One of the gym’s primary goals for 2026 is to introduce a program that would offer free membership services to individuals registered with Kern Family Healthcare (KFHC). The proposed initiative is intended to reduce financial barriers that often limit access to fitness facilities.
“We partnered with Kern Family Healthcare to provide free memberships and a 30-day personalized training program to KFHC members,” explained Sam Alonso, co-founder of Anvros Gym. “We are working on getting that started for the 2026 year.”
According to Data Commons, as of 2022, 42% of residents living in McFarland are considered overweight, which is higher than California’s overall obesity rate of 29%. By creating this initiative, the founders of Anvros Gym hope to combat the local obesity rate.
“Just being able to share the ability to exercise, giving people a place to exercise, keeping that healthy lifestyle, it’s good for everything: mental health, physical health, sleeping, everything. So, I think being able to provide that with this facility is one of our missions,” said Alonso.
By aligning potential membership access with Kern Family Healthcare enrollment, the gym hopes to provide residents with an additional resource to support healthier lifestyles. The initiative is still in development, with details expected to be finalized as the year progresses.
Beyond this proposed program, Anvros Gym has emphasized the importance of creating an inclusive environment for individuals of all fitness levels, ages, and backgrounds.
“Understanding the importance of exercise is important. As for myself, I was always involved in sports and exercise. I understand that that’s not the common thing. I have some experience in the construction side of it and the project management side, working with the city. So, when we came across this opportunity, it worked out great. We really didn’t hesitate much,” said Alonso.
Through its commitment to accessibility, inclusivity, and partnerships with local healthcare providers, the gym is working to reduce barriers that often prevent residents from prioritizing their physical health. As plans for the Kern Family Healthcare initiative move forward, Anvros Gym continues to position itself as a resource in supporting healthier lifestyles and strengthening the overall well-being of the McFarland community.
