Dubai Gyms: Memberships +30%

The arrival of the New Year has brought a noticeable spike in interest at fitness centers across Dubai.

Many residents are eager to move past the excesses of the holiday season and turn their fitness goals into actionable habits.

Major gym chains, including GymNation, are forecasting a 20-30% increase in memberships this January.

This aligns with a worldwide trend of people renewing their dedication to health and wellness at the start of the year.

“January is traditionally one of the busiest months for gym memberships globally, and the UAE is no exception,” explained William Rasmussen-Dean, UAE Country Director for GymNation.

“Typically, we see a 20% membership boost compared to other months, with momentum really picking up in the latter half of January as people ease back into their routines.”

This heightened interest in fitness aligns with Dubai's growing wellness movement. According to Ken Research, the city’s fitness industry, currently valued at over $700 million, is projected to reach over $1 billion in the near future.

Dubai’s health-focused initiatives, such as the Dubai Fitness Challenge—which urges residents to engage in 30 minutes of daily activity for 30 days—have firmly established fitness as an integral part of the city’s lifestyle.

A January Fitness Rush

Gym activity throughout Dubai reflects the surge in enthusiasm for fitness as residents commit to their New Year resolutions.

Sylvie, a Jumeirah resident, shared her perspective, saying, “After enjoying the holidays, I’m ready to get back into shape.

This year, my goal is to make fitness a year-round lifestyle rather than a seasonal trend.” Venkatesh, 42, admitted to facing challenges with fitness resolutions last year, often losing momentum by March.

However, he plans a new approach this year. “I’ve set smaller, more achievable milestones and developed a plan to maintain them throughout the year,” he revealed.

Fitness trainers echo the seasonal trend of higher gym enrollments.

Dubai-based trainer Naved Ali noted that January can account for 10-15% of annual gym memberships, with some facilities noting a 50% jump in sign-ups compared to other months.

“The real challenge is helping people sustain this energy beyond the first quarter,” added Ali.

Acclaimed personal trainer Maik Wiedenbach, renowned as one of the top trainers in Dubai, stressed the need for personalized approaches.

“A structured fitness plan tailored to the individual makes all the difference,” he explained. “Consistency and sustainability are more important than attempting drastic, short-term changes.”

Gyms such as Binous Gym in Al Quoz are also witnessing an influx in memberships.

Rizzy, a representative from the gym, said, “The end of December and January are peak periods for us. Campaigns and promotions during this window motivate many to start their fitness journeys.”

Similarly, Veo by Emaar Hospitality Group launched a New Year offer, granting an additional month of access to subscribers who signed up by December 8.

Expert Tips for Long-Term Commitment

For individuals determined to stick to their fitness resolutions, starting with achievable goals is key.

Jassi, a fitness trainer based in Business Bay, advises, “True transformation doesn’t happen instantly. Begin with 20-30 minutes of daily activity and focus on building consistency over time.”

Research highlights the difficulties of sticking to resolutions. While up to 60% of adults set fitness or weight loss goals, as many as 65% abandon these goals within three to six months, with only 20% maintaining their activity by mid-year.

To combat this, fitness professionals emphasize a gradual approach, achievable milestones, and maintaining a steady commitment.

These strategies can help those embarking on their fitness journeys sustain momentum and achieve lasting change.

Source: dubaiweek

The opinions shared in the GymNation blog articles are solely those of the respective authors and may not represent the perspectives of GymNation or any member of the GymNation team.