Protein-Powered Bears: Colorado Gym Invaders Sip Shakes in Wild Workout Adventure

In the picturesque town of Aspen, Colorado, an unusual gym invasion unfolded, capturing the attention of both locals and wildlife enthusiasts. On a seemingly ordinary night, the owner of Ajax Fitness, David Mills, discovered that his facility had been visited by some rather unexpected guests.

Two black bears, driven by curiosity and a taste for something different, managed to break into the gym late Tuesday night, continuing their escapades into Wednesday. These bears weren’t content with just a brief visit; they indulged in protein shakes and other gym-related snacks, leaving quite the mess in their wake.

Mills recounted the surprising event, noting that surveillance footage captured the moment one of the bears cleverly pulled open a door to gain entry. “This guy really made an effort to get into this gym,” Mills remarked, still amazed by the bear’s determination.

The bears’ appetite wasn’t easily satisfied. After sampling the protein shakes and consuming some protein mix, one of the furry intruders even returned for a second round, further underlining their newfound affinity for the gym’s offerings.

The bears drank the protein shakes and ate some protein mix. Mills said that one of the bears actually came back for Round Two.

“There was chocolate milk across the entire gym floor!” Mills shared.

He said that he did alert Colorado Parks and Wildlife, who tells FOX31 that bears in and around Aspen are currently trying to pack on as many pounds as they can, and sightings may be more common. It is estimated that bears need anywhere from 20,000 to 24,000 daily calories to bulk up for winter.

With the help of CPW, the city has installed an electric bear door mat at the gym. Mills estimates the loss of protein product ranges from $400 to $500.  

No bears or humans were hurt.