About Thorbeckes Athletic Club
Welcome to Thorbeckes Athletic Club, where fitness meets community.
For over 40 years, we’ve been a cornerstone of health and wellness in Southwest Washington, offering state-of-the-art facilities and a welcoming environment where everyone, from beginners to elite athletes, can achieve their fitness goals.
Our Mission
At Thorbeckes, our mission is clear:
“Providing opportunities, resources, and facilities that foster health, wellness, and activity throughout the communities we serve.”
We are dedicated to empowering our members to live healthier, more active lives by creating spaces that inspire personal growth and wellness.
Our Vision
We envision a future where every individual in our community transforms their life through health and fitness. By cultivating a vibrant, supportive environment centered around strength, wellness, and personal development, Thorbeckes strives to be more than just a gym—it’s a lifestyle.
Our Story
Thorbeckes Athletic Club began as a small weightlifting facility in 1982, founded by Dale Pullin in downtown Centralia. In its first month, 125 memberships were sold—a testament to the community’s enthusiasm for a dedicated fitness space. Over the decades, we’ve expanded our facilities and offerings to meet the evolving needs of our members.
Today, Thorbeckes Athletic Club is proud to offer an unparalleled range of fitness programs, including group fitness, yoga, gymnastics, personal training, aquatics, and more. Our culture of support and camaraderie makes Thorbeckes a place where members come not just to work out but to connect, grow, and thrive.
Milestones in Our Journey
1984
Relocated to a larger building in Centralia, introducing fitness classes and more equipment.
1993
Opened a second location in Chehalis, broadening access to fitness opportunities.
1994
Established Thorbeckes Parkside Fitness in Borst Park through a public-private partnership, featuring racquetball courts, group fitness spaces, and more.
2001
Took over operations of the Centralia Community Pool, providing a hub for aquatic fitness and recreation.
2003
Launched the 56,000 sq. ft. FitLife Center in Chehalis, equipped with a climbing wall, tennis center, and performance facilities.
2006
Founded Thorbeckes Healthy Beginnings, a nonprofit promoting youth fitness through initiatives like Captain Thorbeckes, the Superhero of Health.
2018
Rebranded as Thorbeckes Athletic Club under new ownership, Matt and Andrea Noren, continuing the legacy of community-oriented fitness.
2024
Expanded to Grand Mound, making Thorbeckes a presence in three counties with four locations serving the region.