FARMINGTON -- Two women have opened a fitness center in downtown Farmington, and they're inviting the community to visit them on Saturday morning.

Spry Fitness Studio owners Alison Thayer and Kim Roberts have a large, sunny space above the Calico Patch store on Broadway. Since Saturday is the first day of hunting season and the beginning of shopping season, the two hope visitors will stop by on their way to local stores.

Ten years ago, Roberts worked at the University of Maine at Farmington's Health and Fitness Center and became an interim assistant director.

Before that, she spent long days at the computer as a graphic designer. She knew she needed to get more exercise, so she joined a local gymnasium.

"The rest, as they say, is history," she laughed.

Thayer has 17 years experience as a group fitness instructor and personal trainer. She also worked at the UMF Health and Fitness Center's Director of Strength and Conditioning and exercise class coordinator.

In 2006, she opened and still runs Peak Performance in Kingfield; but like Roberts, she wasn't always a healthy person.

"My own experience with weight loss got me into fitness," she said. "The benefits I experience from regular exercise continue to be life-changing."

Thayer said she simply feels happier and more self-confident because of regular exercise.

"I want to share my knowledge and enthusiasm with others to help them discover the amazing benefits -- both physical and emotional -- of regular exercise," she said.

The two will offer a busy schedule of fitness classes for every level and interest, including cardio-kickboxing, athletic conditioning, yoga and Pilates.

Classes can take drop-ins as space allows. They have all sign-up information on their Web site. Their phone number is 491-3490.