Wantage - A year after opening its doors to local women, Pick Up The Pace fitness center happily reports that it is a big loser. “We have lost a ton of weight,” said owner Kimberly Prendergast, who has herself lost 43 pounds. “Collectively we have lost 980 pounds and over 1,000 inches ...and counting,” she added. One year ago when Wantage local Prendergast pitched her new fitness center with the motto, “No mirrors, no men, no kidding,” she was hoping to appeal to the average woman who wanted to get off the couch but may have felt intimidated by the larger, impersonal gyms. “We took off right away, and I would say that about 80 percent of my members, who range in age from 16 to 82 years and in weight from 110 to 300 pounds, have renewed their memberships,” said Prendergast. “We are small enough where you can get to know everyone and we have a nice friendly social atmosphere,” she added. Pick Up The Pace offers a 30-minute cardiovascular and strength-training program in a friendly and non-intimidating environment. “I have been a member since September and I have lost 31 pounds, combining my workout here about four times a week with a Weight Watchers program,” said Diane Smith of Sussex. “I find the fact that it’s all women less intimidating and it’s very user friendly,” she added. Pick Up The Pace is currently offering a special 2006 registration rate of $20.06, and a six- or 12-month membership for $39 and $49 per month, respectively. “We also offer a 10 percent discount for women over 55 and a 10 percent discount for teachers,” said Prendergast. Pick Up The Pace is located in Wantage Plaza on Rte. 23. Hours are 7 a.m. to 8 p.m., Monday through Friday, and from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday. For information, call 973-875-2992 or log onto letspickupthepace.com.