Kenyans are embracing workouts as a way to combat lifestyle diseases, with statistics showing a 36 percent increase in gym memberships in recent years. The Kenya National Bureau of Statistics and the World Health Organization report that over 1,300 fitness centers are currently operating across the country. However, membership charges remain a challenge, with many Kenyans spending less than Sh2,000 monthly on wellness.
For many, joining a gym is associated with losing weight, building muscles, and achieving an agile physical stature. However, beyond the physical benefits, gym workouts also offer improved mental wellbeing and a healthier lifestyle. In Nyeri town, gym enthusiasts are increasingly embracing physical exercise as a way to improve their overall health.
Silas Wainaina, a client at Body Craft Gym in Nyeri, says he has been reaping the benefits of workout sessions, including improved breathing and increased energy levels. Wainaina has also changed his eating habits to complement his physical exercises, reducing his starch intake and increasing his protein and vegetable consumption.
Cynthia Wambui, another client at Body Craft Gym, says she joined the gym to lose weight and boost her overall wellness. Since embarking on her fitness journey, she has noticed encouraging changes, including improved breathing and weight loss. Wambui is now encouraging women to prioritize their health by incorporating physical exercise into their daily lives.
Morris Wanguku, an instructor at Genn 22 Fitness Gym, describes the gym as a place where individuals can work towards improving themselves physically and mentally. Wanguku says that gym workouts can help individuals develop discipline and responsibility, qualities that can be useful in other areas of life.
Adams Munene, a gym instructor at Body Craft Gym, says that clients visit the facility with different objectives, including losing weight, gaining weight, and building or toning their muscles. Munene emphasizes that understanding a client's lifestyle and schedule plays an important role in achieving their fitness goals.
Hezborne Mikuro, an instructor and nutritionist at Great Rift Valley Lodge and Golf Resort Fitness Center, says that the journey towards physical fitness begins with the mind. Mikuro encourages his clients to set realistic goals, develop a healthy diet, and avoid sugary foods and excessive starch intake.
Key points
- Gym memberships in Kenya have increased by 36 percent in recent years, with over 1,300 fitness centers operating across the country.
- Many Kenyans still face challenges in accessing gym services due to high membership charges.
- Gym instructors emphasize that exercise alone may not be enough to achieve desired results; a healthy diet and consistency are also crucial.
