GymNation Invests $1.5M in Pilates

GymNation is preparing to broaden its presence in the Middle East by bolstering its tech and AI investments in response to the strong demand for its affordable gym memberships.

This model has already attracted over 25,000 members in Saudi Arabia, particularly appealing to female fitness enthusiasts.

According to fresh data from the Global Wellness Institute, Saudi Arabia's wellness sector is valued at $19.8 billion, marking it as one of the fastest-growing markets in the Middle East and North Africa.

"We've successfully opened ten gyms this year, with six in Saudi Arabia—each on schedule and within budget, surpassing membership expectations," shared GymNation founder and CEO Loren Holland.

"We've experienced a positive reception, thanks in part to the supportive investment environment facilitated by the Ministry of Investment, which has been vital to our expansion in the Kingdom."

Holland recently mentioned to Entrepreneur that Saudi Arabia’s fitness industry is flourishing and is a market GymNation has been eager to enter for some time.

He is optimistic about the government's initiatives to boost fitness participation and promote health and wellness, aligning with GymNation's long-term goals.

"It’s a thrilling period, and GymNation aims to lead these efforts as the region’s 'movement partner,'" Holland stated.

"We look forward to promoting healthy lifestyles and assisting communities in achieving their fitness aspirations."

Interestingly, GymNation's female membership in Saudi Arabia exceeds that of males—a trend predicted to persist as the company plans to invest over $1.5 million in Pilates studios at existing and future sites.

Additionally, GymNation intends to introduce a wellness and recovery service in the first quarter of 2025.

"Our gender-neutral pricing strategy resonates well in a market where female-only gyms are typically more expensive than those for males," Holland noted.

Over the next year, GymNation aims to launch 20 to 30 new locations, including ventures into new markets like Kuwait, Bahrain, and Qatar.

Looking ahead, the goal is to expand to over 100 sites across the GCC and explore opportunities in the MENA region.

In addition, GymNation has introduced the competitive racing brand Hyrox to the region and plans to open Hyrox Performance Centers soon, providing hybrid athletes in the Middle East with dedicated training facilities.

GymNation joins other companies like PureGym, Anytime Fitness, the Australian boxing fitness franchise UBX, and wearable tech company Whoop in tapping into the Middle East's burgeoning fitness market and rising interest in health and fitness.

Source: athletechnews

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.