Founded in 1986, gym will mark four decades of fitness, friendship, and community with a public party
In 1986, Ronald Reagan was president and George Deukmejian served as the governor of California. Gas cost less than a dollar a gallon, due to an oil glut. The Polynesian-themed Tonga Lei was a locals’ favorite eatery, as was Malibu Sea Lion, owned by Robert Morris. Occasionally, Tom Petty and other local musicians would show up unannounced and jam at the Trancas Bar & Grill. The Dume Room was another revered locals’ sanctuary.
Malibu wasn’t even a city yet, but that would soon change.
1986 was also the year when Lonnie Weinstock Falate founded Malibu Fitness.
“We are celebrating 40 years in business and you’re invited!” Malibu Fitness posted on social media. “On Feb. 20, we are having a party at the gym from 4 to 6 p.m. There will be storytelling, live music, food and fun. Bring everyone! Valet provided. Thank you for your continued support!”
Reminiscing, Marty Pritchett shared, “For 40 years, I’ve had the privilege of working at Malibu Fitness and watching it grow into so much more than a gym. It’s been a place where friendships are formed, confidence is built and people of all ages come together to support one another’s health and well-being.
“Malibu Fitness means community, consistency, and care — it’s a second home for so many, and I’m proud to have been part of its story for four decades.”
For her part, Weinstock Falate said, “Having grown up in Malibu, I’ve witnessed firsthand how much our community has changed over the years. Since opening Malibu Fitness in 1986, I’ve learned that adapting and staying flexible isn’t just good business — it’s a way of life here.
“Between the growth of the health and fitness industry and the challenges we’ve faced as a community — fires, floods and COVID — I’ve been tested in more ways than I’ve ever imagined. Through it all, I’ve continued to learn, evolve and stay committed to the work that I love. I have immense respect for the Malibu businesses that have endured alongside us in this small, resilient community.”
It’s that community that has provided the support for Weinstock Falate to stay open.
“I’m deeply grateful for the loyal community and dedicated staff who have supported Malibu Fitness over the decades, some of whom have been with me since the very beginning,” she said. “I’m grateful for my health, proud of the work we do and I feel incredibly fortunate to love going to work every day.”
Characterizing herself as a “Six-day a week gym rat who considers Malibu Fitness to be her second family,” Laureen Sills sang Malibu Fitness’ praises, sharing, “Since 1986, when I joined Malibu Fitness, I have been a consistent member steadily riding the fitness trends from step aerobics in the ’80s to current killer spinning classes, balance ball with weights, and the best yoga classes in Malibu.”
Sills said that Weinstock Falate “always hired the most experienced instructors, trainers, and an ebullient staff who greet everyone with a smile. At Malibu Fitness, many friends share the same health-oriented goals and are always checking on each other, especially when life is ‘life-ing.’”
“The support, kindness and encouragement go far beyond fitness”
“Malibu Fitness is home to me!” Darlene Addison stated. “For the past 11 years, Malibu Fitness has been more than just a gym to me — it has been a lifeline. As a parent caring for a disabled child, the gym has played a huge role in protecting my mental health. The support, kindness and encouragement there go far beyond fitness. Malibu Fitness is truly a community and a family, and I am deeply grateful for what it has meant to me and my family!”
Addison shared that in 2017, “Lonnie did a fundraiser for Callie’s Cause,” referring to a nonprofit organization to support research regarding a rare form of epilepsy called Dravet Syndrome. The Addison family formed Callie’s Cause after their daughter Callie was diagnosed with the disorder.
That’s why Malibu Fitness is so much more than just a place to get in shape. The community is invited to join in the celebration on Feb. 20 from 4 to 6 p.m. Guests will enjoy storytelling, photos and videos highlighting our history and a raffle. Of course, food and refreshments will be offered. Malibu Fitness is located at 29575 Pacific Coast Highway.
“Cheers to Lonnie for 40 years of keeping Malibu healthy and providing so many of us a place ‘where everyone knows your name.’” Sills said.