While it may be difficult to fathom for those of us on the "inside", the name CityClub can be confusing. For example, we receive (almost weekly) Facebook friend requests from folks who think we are a club - of the bass-thumping, strobe-lighting persuasion. One of my favorite bits of CityClub lore (fact? urban legend?) is the tale of a gentleman who once showed up in a towel and gym shorts, ready to work out - he thought CityClub was a gym. (To be fair, we suspect that at one point we were listed somewhere in an online city guide as an athletic club.)

Now, a new sort of branding adventure is upon us: we have a true-blue gym moving in next door to our offices in Rainier Square! Already we've dealt with one confused delivery man who was down at the gym with our package, saying "Are you SURE you're not CityClub?"

All of this has lead us to start brainstorming ways in which CityClub is - and is NOT - like a gym. We've come up with a few to share!

1. It's true, we are both membership-based organizations.
2. However, one does not have to be a member of CityClub to attend an event!
3. We like to think we exercise your mind rather than your body. The brain isn't technically a muscle - but one could argue we encourage you to exercise your tongue, and be heard on issues you care about!
4. You never have to shower and have a change of clothes when you attend a CityClub program.
5. Going to the gym regularly can be a challenge - and so can finding time to stay civicly engaged in your community. (Don't worry, CityClub can help!)
6. The gym will never serve you dessert.

Are there other ways CityClub is different than a gym? Similar?

We are looking forward to being good neighbors with the gym (there has certainly been talk of staff members joining, because it's so convenient!). And, it'll keep our delivery folks on their toes!