Business Owner Doubles Academy Space
The former Book World location now has a new tenant.
Owner Daniel Reis of Reis Martial Arts Academy purchased the building and is in the process of moving his school from its South Central location to 414 S. Central Avenue, best known as the site of the now-closed bookstore.
A tenant and business owner for four and a half years, and a martial arts instructor with nearly thirty years of teaching experience, Reis said the cost of rent and the increased space were two main factors in his decision to move. The new space offers 6,500 square feet, compared with 2,300 at the old location, and over double the amount of mat space.
Reis began the renovations less than three weeks ago, adding walls to form the main mat area, changing rooms, a lobby, and storage.
“It also affords me the opportunity to expand on some programs,” Reis said. That includes cardio kickboxing classes and renting out a portion of the mat area for yoga and Tai chi instructors. An industrial curtain will divide the space.
One of the most technologically advanced martial arts academies around, Reis will install 55-inch televisions on the walls and posts for instructors to run programs. Computers with videos will assist students in learning techniques.
The new lobby will have cable, WiFi, plenty of USB ports for charging cell phones, and a display of trophies. Reis has won forty-seven grand championships and more at national championships.
“Having the extra space makes it all possible,” said Reis.
Classes begin February 1 at the new location. Visit the academy website for more information on how to enroll in its programs for youth, families, and adults.
