GymNation Launches a Hot Air Balloon Workout 2,200ft Above Riyadh

GymNation has introduced a limited-run workout concept in Riyadh that swaps the studio for the sky. The World’s Highest Gym Class is held inside a hot air balloon, reaching 2,200 feet (670.56 metres) above the city, and GymNation is promoting it as the highest gym class in the world.

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The idea taps into a wider shift in what people want from training. GymNation says research across the GCC found 67% of exercisers are looking for more memorable fitness experiences than traditional workouts.

How the class works (ground warm-up, then lift-off)

The experience follows a clear structure:

• Warm-up and stretching on the ground
  
  

• Then an ascent to around 2,200ft
  
  

• Followed by a 30-minute full-body strength and conditioning session using bodyweight and weights
  
  

The workout uses aviation-themed names for familiar moves, including:

• Cloud Crushers (squats)
  
  

• Bicep Take-Offs (bicep curls)
  
  

• Plus other staple patterns like lunges and lateral raises
  
  

Why 6:00am matters

Sessions start at 6:00am, which means sunrise lighting and clear views over major Riyadh landmarks, including Kingdom Tower, Al Faisaliah Tower, and Majdoul Tower. 

The “altitude training” angle, explained clearly

The workout was developed with sports scientist Aderito Manuel, and the concept is positioned around altitude training principles.

Manuel has stated that altitude training can increase red blood cell volume (3% to 10%) and hemoglobin (5% to 10%), and that participants may burn 5% to 15% extra calories when training at altitude. These figures are presented as claims tied to altitude training generally and the brand’s concept framing.

What matters for readers is the context:

• In sports science, altitude training adaptations are most often discussed at higher elevations than 670m, with many practical recommendations for athletes focusing on roughly 1,600 to 2,400 metres and requiring sufficient exposure over time. 
  
  

• So, think of the balloon class as altitude-inspired training plus a unique training environment, rather than a replacement for a multi-week altitude camp.

Simple analogy: Altitude training is like doing the same work with less oxygen available. Over time, the body adapts to carry and use oxygen more efficiently. Back at lower elevation, that can translate into improved performance for some athletes. 

Safety, availability, and how spots are allocated

Because the class is limited-capacity, GymNation is using a ballot system to determine attendance. Sessions run every Saturday throughout January 2026, and the brand says the workouts have been cleared with health and safety experts. 

Where this fits if you want the “training benefit” year-round

If the balloon session is the headline experience, your results still come from what you repeat weekly: strength, conditioning, and progressive training.

• For conditioning built around strength endurance, pacing, and performance, HYROX-style training is a practical option you can do consistently.
  
  

• If you want to train locally and keep momentum after the event, explore GymNation gyms in Riyadh.

Source: gulfnews, athletechnews

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