Leading the Pack – Michael Becktel Brings WOLF Fitness to Mullica Hill!

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You may have heard about the big changes at the former Kennedy Fitness! Meet Michael Becktel, the passionate owner of WOLF Fitness, and learn about his vision for creating a premier regional fitness and wellness destination.

When Michael Becktel acquired the former Kennedy Fitness in Mullica Hill at the end of 2024, he didn’t just purchase a gym—he embraced a mission. WOLF Fitness, a growing fitness franchise known for its strong community values and elite training facilities, was the perfect fit for Michael’s vision. His goal? To turn an outdated gym into a premier fitness destination, offering state-of-the-art equipment, expert-led education, and an inspiring culture of commitment and integrity.

Becktel’s journey into fitness entrepreneurship wasn’t conventional. A Gloucester Township native, he grew up with a love for sports, music, and intellectual pursuits. From an early age, he was wired for movement—whether competing in sports, exploring the outdoors, or finding new ways to challenge himself physically, fitness was always part of his life. Yet his career took a different path into the high-stakes world of finance. After years of leading an investment business, he and his wife, Sarah, took time to travel the country together, exploring national parks and historical sites and immersing themselves in nature. These experiences reinforced his belief in living a full, active, and engaged life, ultimately leading him to seek a new challenge—one that more closely aligned with his values, interests, and personal mission.

Michael’s passion for health and longevity deepened after his father suffered a stroke, sparking his pursuit of knowledge in fitness, recovery, and wellness. “I became very interested in healthspan, the idea of living not just longer but better,” Becktel says. “WOLF Fitness isn’t just about lifting weights or swimming laps; I want to help people live stronger, healthier, and more resilient lives.”

Taking over Kennedy Fitness was no small feat. The facility was dated, the equipment needed an overhaul, and the culture had become stagnant. But Becktel saw immense potential. “Mullica Hill was a gym desert,” he explains. “The area needed a true fitness hub, somewhere people could train, learn, and grow, both physically and mentally.”

Since acquiring the gym, Becktel has invested hundreds of thousands of dollars in renovations and upgrades, ensuring that WOLF Fitness Mullica Hill stands out as the premier fitness center in the area. The 25,000-square-foot facility now boasts:

Over 60 brand-new, top-tier equipment pieces
A 100-foot turf area for functional training
Upgrades to the saltwater swimming pool, spa, and hot tub
Revamped men’s and women’s saunas for optimal recovery
A specialized leg and glutes section with elite machines
A new welcome desk and lounge area
A fully stocked pro shop with supplements and apparel

Additionally, WOLF has enhanced services and introduced new programs, including:

The WOLF Lecture Series, bringing expert-led discussions on longevity and wellness
A comprehensive personal training program, including small-group and team training
Expanded swim lesson offerings, from beginner classes to triathlon training
Equipment Mastery Sessions, where trainers guide members through new machines

Enhancement and innovation are the driving forces behind WOLF Fitness and will continue to shape its future. The gym is in the process of rolling out custom QR-coded instructional videos on each piece of equipment, allowing members to access quick tutorials on proper use and benefits right from their smartphones. Additionally, a cold plunge and infrared sauna therapy will be introduced, providing cutting-edge recovery options to enhance overall wellness and performance.

Beyond physical changes and program enhancements, WOLF Fitness is creating a culture where every member and staff member feels valued, welcomed, and supported! As Michael describes this, he showed us a Facebook Reel where WOLF’s 75-year-old welcome desk attendant and member, Billee, teaches a fellow member how to use one of the new pieces of equipment—a must-watch! “This is what we are creating here… it isn’t just a gym, it’s a community!” He added with a smile, “Our members are part of a pack, and wolves don’t thrive unless the pack is strong.”

For Michael, WOLF Fitness isn’t just another investment—it’s the culmination of his life’s passion, hard work, perseverance, and the relentless pursuit of improvement. “I’ve been in business for much of my career, but nothing has energized me like this,” he says. “Helping people improve their lives—that’s real impact.”

It was truly a pleasure meeting Michael Becktel. His energy and passion are infectious! We are sure that WOLF Fitness will bring something very special to Mullica Hill.