POST FALLS - Chanda Branson started out running simply to get in shape.

That led to Branson winning the 2009 Coeur d'Alene Marathon - the first marathon she entered - and several other races.

Now Branson is stepping up to the starting line again - this time with a new business.

Branson, who previously worked at other fitness centers in the area, has opened Frontline Fitness at 414 W. Seltice Way in the Treaty Rock Center in Post Falls.

"Fitness is a battlefield ... welcome to the front line," said Branson, referring to the center's spartan theme.

Workouts can be hard and the equipment can be intimidating, so Branson wants her center to be comforting and welcoming to customers.

"I want it to be a place of acceptance and family-oriented," she said. "I want to get away from the corporate feel."

Part of the center has metal as its dominant decor, while the other part features neon graffiti on the wall.

"We really want to make it gender-neutral; it has two different feels," said Branson, who has competed in the Boston Marathon and is a repeat medalist at Bloomsday.

The business has a garage door that can be opened for fresh air during the summer months. It also has lighting, fog machines and other special effects that can coincide with workouts and events.

The center will celebrate its grand opening today starting at 4:30 p.m. There will be refreshments and tours.

A bike class is planned for 4:30 p.m., Body Combat mixed martial arts class at 5:15 p.m., Body Step aerobics at 6 p.m. and Body Pump weight training at 6:45 p.m.

The center has Nautilus Nitro gym circuit equipment, free weights and Star Trac treadmills. It offers a variety of classes ranging from youth martial arts to Zumba dance fitness. The center uses the Les Mills group fitness system that's recognized worldwide.

The center, which employs 15, offers child care. Hours of operation are: Monday-Friday, 5 a.m. to 10 p.m.; Saturday, 7 a.m. to 6 p.m.; and Sunday, 7 a.m. to 5 p.m.

For a year-long membership, the registration fee is $39 and the monthly fee is $35. The second family member is $27 per month and the third $15.

For month-to-month membership, registration is $99. The monthly fee is $42 for the first family member, $27 for the second and $17 for the third.

The fees include all classes except TRX suspension training and youth martial arts.

Corporate, senior, student and military discounts are available. Grand opening specials will be offered through Sunday.

There will be an eight-week "Body Battle" weight-loss challenge this spring led by personal fitness trainers. Cost for participants is $70.

Information: 777-7999