Schoolcraft marks Yooper Fitness’ 5-year anniversary

MANISTIQUE — Schoolcraft Tourism & Commerce (STC) congratulates Emily and Tiger Marcotte, owners of Yooper Fitness, on reaching a milestone–five years in business. Since opening their doors in March 2020, Yooper Fitness has become a cornerstone of the Manistique community’s health and wellness scene, growing from a single local gym to soon four locations across the region.

Born from a deep-rooted passion for fitness and a commitment to filling a need in their hometown, Yooper Fitness began as a vision shaped by Tiger’s lifelong exposure to health and wellness–most notably, the example set by his father, Al, who is now 85, and made time to work out every day. Both Tiger and Emily, who played college hockey, wanted to bring that same passion and discipline to the people of Manistique through accessible 24/7 gym services, personal training, and dynamic group classes.

“From the very beginning, Yooper Fitness has stood for more than just physical health–it represents resilience, and innovation,” said Victoria George, executive director of Schoolcraft Tourism & Commerce. “Emily and Tiger’s story, especially persevering through the uncertainty of COVID just days after opening, is a remarkable example of dedication and adaptability. Their commitment to this community and their members is nothing short of inspiring. STC is honored to celebrate this five-year milestone with them.”

Despite having to close only eight days after opening due to the COVID-19 shutdown, the Marcotte’s pushed through the uncertainty and patiently built a business that today not only thrives but positively transforms lives. One standout story is that of Nathan Schoenow, a Manistique High School swimmer who worked closely with Yooper Fitness trainer Tyler to achieve his goal of breaking every school swim record–graduating with his name on them all Men’s Individual and one of the relays.

Over the years, Yooper Fitness has expanded its offerings to include youth programming, bootcamps, personal training, and the recently launched “Yooper Pump” class–a high-energy, music-driven weightlifting workout. The gym has also become a valuable training space for student-athletes, working directly with Manistique High School’s football team on strength and conditioning.

Beyond fitness, the business has built strong partnerships–most notably with Schoolcraft Memorial Hospital, which provides memberships to employees who choose to be a member and collaborates with Yooper Fitness on wellness initiatives.

“Tyler, our general manager in Manistique, has been with us from the very beginning– mmmmeven before the paint dried on the walls,” said Emily Marcotte. “He’s become the face of our gym and plays a major role in our outreach and member success. We are so grateful for his energy and commitment.”

As they look ahead, Emily and Tiger remain focused on evolving with the needs of their members and continuing to make a lasting difference in their community.

To learn more about Yooper Fitness, visit https://yooperfitness.net/ or follow them on Facebook, https://www.facebook.com/search/top?q=yooper%20fitness.