If you live in Middleton, you’re likely familiar with Harbor Athletic Club. Over the last four decades, it has been the central spot for community members to “Train For Life” - whether to prepare for vacation, keep up with grandkids, or college athletics. Opened in 1984 by Paul and Francine Ernst, Harbor provides a safe space for all members to enjoy a variety of athletic activities.
Since opening, the gym has evolved from a ten-court racquetball club to an over 80,000-square-foot facility that offers four pools, an indoor track, two full-size basketball courts, separate yoga and pilates studios, and more. Though the space has grown, the company’s mission has remained constant — to help its members Train For Life and serve and support their community.
“Our founder, Paul Ernst, made it a priority from day one to support and give back to our community. After all, Paul is a veteran who served our country in Vietnam. He believes that a community is stronger and can thrive when everyone plays a part and gives back,” said Melissa Oberle, daughter of Paul and the current owner of Harbor Athletic Club.
Harbor goes beyond creating an inviting and enjoyable fitness space for its members. The club also participates in many local fundraising events throughout the year.
“We’re fortunate to give back in many ways,” said Melissa. “We love this community and it’s important to us to do our part in helping it flourish. As an athletic club, the core of our business is helping people and providing a service that enhances their quality of life. Because serving members of our community is already a major part of our business, it’s almost innate to give beyond our walls.”
In 2024 alone, Harbor has supported over 100 organizations through in-kind donations and sponsorships, including Gigi's Playhouse, Middleton VFW, Literacy Network, Canopy Center and Parkinson's Association, Middleton High School Athletics, Middleton Good Neighbor Festival 5k, Middleton Band and Orchestra and the Middleton Lions Club.
Throughout the year, Harbor shares its facilities with groups such as the Special Olympics and Middleton High School’s adaptive physical education program. Harbor also sends its experienced instructors into the community to share their knowledge about topics like Parkinson’s and prenatal health, provide in-season and pregame training for Middleton athletic teams, and host gym classes for high school students.
Harbor also partners with first responders like the Middleton Police Force and Middleton Fire District. In 2021, the team joined forces with the Fire District to provide a variety of fitness classes at Station 1, and support the wellness needs of the fire department team overall.
The club also hosts multiple classes a year that raise funds for different community partners. Their annual Knock Out Breast Cancer event is a favorite, with all funds raised going to the UW Carbone Cancer Center.
“We couldn’t think of a better way to serve our community. We have been deeply embedded in Middleton for over 40 years and it brings us great joy. Our community has supported us in so many ways, and we desire to do the same for others,” said Melissa.
Looking forward, Harbor Athletic Club is excited to continue serving the fitness needs of all people and supporting the overall health and wellness of the community.
“We believe that helping people train to live the life they want is the best approach to fitness. Fad workouts, or workouts you dread are not sustainable. We hope to continue growing programs to help members find enjoyment in movement.”
As the holiday season approaches, they invite you to join them on their mission. From decorating and delivering cookies to ringing bells for the Salvation Army, the opportunities are endless.
For Harbor Athletic Club members, you can also participate in the Reach Dance Giving Tree. “We love how our members look forward to this every year and they are so generous. By mid-December we have a room full of presents to be donated to Reach Dane and it feels like something we did as a team with all our members.”
“We believe that helping people train to live the life they want is the best approach to fitness. We hope to grow programs to help members find enjoyment in movement.”
“We love this community and it’s important to us to do our part in helping it flourish. Because serving members of our community is already a major part of our business, it’s almost innate to give beyond our walls.”