The clouds are beginning to part on the 400-500 Block of Elmwood. A significant longstanding empty storefront at 467 Elmwood Avenue has finally been snapped up. The storefront in question, owned by Jim Pepe at Hodge Wine & Liquor, will soon be home to Reform Fitness, based in Orchard Park.

According to the Reform Fitness website, much of the fitness plan is built around “utilizing the innovative Lagree Fitness™ method on the patented Megaformer™ – a revolutionary approach to full body conditioning. The slow, controlled movements of each heart pounding class incorporate cardio, strength training, endurance, core, flexibility, and balance (40 minute sessions).”

Buffalo continues to take big strides in the realm of healthy neighborhood offerings. Between yoga studios on just about every block, more healthy food choices popping up everywhere, and an assortment of gyms and fitness centers, there are plenty of opportunities to stay in top shape year round.

Now Elmwood is joining in on the action, with the new Reform Fitness (owned by Brittany Gabryel), which will soon contribute to the rebirth of this stretch of Elmwood, by opening in a sizable, very visible space (the former Ambrosia Restaurant).

“Reform Fitness is the only studio in WNY to offer Lagree Fitness – a 40 minute, full body workout,” says Brittany. “The method is built on the idea that you do not need more time to work out, you just need more intensity!”

And when asked about her decision to open a location Elmwood, she had this to say,”When I opened the Orchard Park location in 2015, my dream was to eventually open a second location in the city. I have always loved the Elmwood Village because of its sense of community. So, when we found the space on Elmwood, it was an incredible feeling! I am so excited to share our brand of Lagree Fitness with Buffalo, and even more excited to see the 400-500 block of Elmwood flourish over the next few years!”

It will be great to see this corner revitalized. It will be even greater when Ellicott Development and Sinatra & Company get the ball rolling on the Children’s Hospital site, which will be a giant boon for the entire street.