Turbeville’s Main Street has a new source of inspiration, fitness, and faith with the opening of 4:13 Fitness, a gym owned by longtime residents and high-school sweethearts Kristan and Lenich “Ericson” Coker. The couple, whose faith has been central to their relationship and growing family, turned a vision into reality after years of dreaming about creating a space where fitness and spiritual well-being intersect.
Kristan, originally from nearby New Zion, and Ericson, a Turbeville native, met while attending East Clarendon High School. Both were athletes and went on to play college baseball and softball. Their shared passion for sports, health, and their Christian faith laid the foundation for their future together. Now, with two children, Lenich “Linc” Eric Coker IV and Chapel Rebekah Coker, the couple balances full-time careers, family, and their new business.
“It’s been so much fun!” Kristan gushed when asked about working together to create the family business. “I feel truly blessed to have such a great support system. My husband has been my biggest fan and encourager since day one. Linc and Chapel have been with us while we set up equipment early mornings and late evenings. And it would be such a blessing to have them be a part of the business one day if the Lord sees fit.”
Kristan’s journey to opening 4:13 Fitness began with a calling. “It was really at a women’s Christian conference where God placed the idea on my heart,” she explained. “I didn’t know what it would look like or how it would come together, but I knew it was something I needed to pursue.”
The gym’s name, 4:13 Fitness, reflects the couple’s faith, drawing from Philippians 4:13: “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” This verse is at the heart of their mission, as they aim to create a space where faith and fitness can go hand in hand.
For Ericson, giving back to the community that raised him was always a priority. “This town has always supported me and my family,” he said. “My dad and granddaddy owned businesses here, and it was important for us to do something that could give back to the people who have given us so much.”
The Cokers believe that what sets 4:13 Fitness apart from other gyms is their focus on personal connections and faith. Unlike larger chain gyms, 4:13 Fitness emphasizes getting to know each member individually, offering personalized fitness plans that align with each person’s goals. Kristan, an exercise physiologist by profession, brings a wealth of experience to her work at the gym. She provides personal training, both in-person and virtually, ensuring that members receive tailored support throughout their fitness journey.
“I think what makes us different is Kristan,” Ericson said proudly. “Her faith, her passion for helping others—it’s not something you find everywhere. Here, it’s not just about working out; it’s about being part of a community that values each person and their health.”
Their vision for the gym extends beyond fitness. Kristan is particularly passionate about serving the elderly population, offering classes designed for seniors and incorporating her experience in cardiology into her work. “I have a love for them,” she said, “and I want them to have something close by that helps them stay active and healthy.”
In addition to fitness classes and personal training, 4:13 Fitness will offer a variety of programs, including Zumba, kickboxing, high-intensity interval training (HIIT), and even yoga. The couple is also exploring ways to incorporate devotions, or acts of prayer and private worship, into workouts, much like the sessions Kristan once led at the local track.
Before opening their doors, Kristan and Ericson spent nearly a year transforming the gym from an old, rundown building into a bright, welcoming space. It wasn’t easy, but they never lost sight of their goal. “We’ve prayed over this place, for the people who come in to feel that it’s different—that it’s Christ-centered,” Kristan reflected.
Their efforts have not gone unnoticed. Turbeville Mayor Tammy Hicks praised the Cokers for their vision, saying, “I am so excited for a Physical Fitness/Rehab Center to be available in Turbeville. Individuals will not have to drive to Florence, Sumter, or Lake City to exercise or receive rehab. It is truly a beautiful establishment and an asset to our town.”
As the Cokers continue to grow their membership, they remain committed to their faith, each other, and the community that has supported them from the start. 4:13 Fitness is more than a gym. It is a place where faith, family, and fitness come together to inspire and uplift.
For more information about 4:13 Fitness, you can follow them on Facebook and Instagram.
