About JJR

Family-Owned. Community-Driven.

JJR Next Level Training & Fitness is a family-owned and operated fitness and athletic development business serving individuals and families across the Illinois Valley.

Our Story

Built Around Fitness, Sports & Community

JJR Next Level Fitness isn't just a gym. Family owned and operated, JJR was created with a big heart and an even bigger desire to strengthen our local community and to bring opportunities to those of all levels and ages on their own fitness journey.

Located in the heart of the Illinois Valley, JJR offers a community where adults, athletes, and children can stay active, develop confidence, and pursue a healthy lifestyle while having fun, meeting new people, and enjoying the training experience. With facilities in LaSalle and Ottawa, JJR continues to provide a place where people can train, perform, play, and grow.

JJR LaSalle weight room with strength training equipment and turf flooring
What Drives Us

More Than a Gym

JJR brings several types of fitness, training, and recreation together under one roof so the entire family can stay active and reach their potential.

Professional Coaching

Professional coaching and structured training programs for adults, athletes, and youth across the Illinois Valley.

All Ages & Levels

24/7 gym memberships, Adult Performance, athlete speed and strength training, youth movement programs, and indoor sports dome rentals.

Community First

A family-owned business created with a big heart and a drive to strengthen the local community and support local athletes.

Our Team

Meet the JJR Team

Professional coaching, management, and leadership dedicated to health, discipline, opportunity, and athletic growth.

JJ Raffelson, Owner & Head Coach at JJR Next Level Training & Fitness

Owner & Head Coach

JJ Raffelson

Certified Master Level Fitness Coach, Strength & Conditioning Coach, Youth Development Specialist, Exercise Therapy Coach, and Sports Nutrition Specialist.

Jim Fultz, Next Level Manager at JJR Next Level Training & Fitness

Next Level Manager

Jim Fultz

Certified Fitness Coach, Strength & Conditioning Coach, and Youth Development Specialist.

Gina Worden, Next Level Coach at JJR Next Level Training & Fitness

Next Level Coach

Gina Worden

Certified Personal Trainer, Lions Jrs. volleyball coach, and co-owner of D and G Cleaning. Provides private, small-group, and travel team volleyball coaching.

Heather Raffelson, Next Level Coach at JJR Next Level Training & Fitness

Next Level Coach

Heather Raffelson

Next Level Coach assisting in coaching and supporting motivated individuals and athletes. Co-founder of the JJR Foundation.

Community Involvement

Investing in Local Athletes

The JJR Foundation was established to bring opportunities to athletes of all levels located here in the Illinois Valley.

Founded by JJ and Heather Raffelson, the JJR Foundation aims to give all kids the chance to participate in sports and athletic training. Through college scholarships and sponsorship opportunities supported by business and private donations, the Foundation works to help keep local kids active, develop self-confidence, and support athletes who need assistance accessing training programs.

JJR Foundation Leadership

Founders
JJ Raffelson & Heather Raffelson
Treasurer
Lyn Raffelson
Board of Directors

President: TJ Templeton

Vice President: Tony Brucker

Secretary: Barbie Smith

Member: Charlie Breneman

Where to Find Us

Two Illinois Valley Locations

JJR serves the Illinois Valley with facilities in LaSalle and Ottawa, Illinois.

Our 27,000+ square-foot LaSalle facility features fitness equipment, indoor sports courts, batting cages, and sports dome space for athletic training, youth activities, and events.

LaSalle Location

JJR LaSalle Dome

32 Gunia Drive
La Salle, IL 61301

24/7 Member Access • Call for Staffed Hours