NATCHEZ — When Ernie Hillebrandt walked into Highland Health Club on Jan. 21, he had no idea he would be opening his own health club in just six weeks.

“We walked in and the owners informed everyone the property had been bought and they were closing the property Jan. 25,” Hillebrandt said.

A lot of the patrons were shocked, but Hillebrandt didn’t waste any time and on Jan. 22 he made the owners an offer to buy their equipment.

“Basically, I still wanted a place to work out without having to go downtown,” Hillebrandt said.

But losing the workout facility he used was not the only reason Hillebrandt decided to make the move and open his own gym.

“I liked the camaraderie among the people who went to Highland,” he said. “It seemed like the perfect fit to build a facility everyone could use and keep the same group together.”

And now, for approximately a week-and-a-half, Hillebrandt’s brainchild, Needmore Fitness, has been open.

Located in suite No. 9 at the Bellemont Shopping Center on U.S. 61 South, Needmore Fitness is a 6,500 square-foot facility with room to expand if needed.

“We were able to take every piece of equipment and have enough room in a comfortable spacious area where people are not stepping on each other,” Hillebrandt said.

The facility offers a full weight room, tanning beds and aerobics.

The color scheme at Needmore was based off of the local high school colors and the most popular colleges locals support, Hillebrandt said.

“We did this to let everyone know anyone from the community can come in,” he said.

Membership at Needmore Fitness comes with a six-month contract that is $45 a month for a single person, $60 a month for a couple and $75 a month for families.

Those interested in corporate or student rates should call the business at 601-445-9988.