SA fitness boom shifts from aesthetics to community

The fitness industry in South Africa has seen significant growth in gyms and competitions this year.

According to Nicholas Ingel, CEO of Emet Gyms, the rise in popularity in powerlifting has brought a sense of community and competition, drawing people in.

He attributes this shift to a desire for a sense of belonging rather than just physical appearance.

This is why events such as Hyrox have gained such popularity. 

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“The sense of competition and working towards something. We are seeing the industry change and move away from just these general halls filled with equipment."

He adds: “South Africans have become a lot more time poor, we are under financial pressure, and we are under a lot of stress, so the gym has moved away from aesthetics and more to community and a general sense of well-being.”

Given this trend, many smaller gyms, such as Emet Gyms, thrive as they offer a more intimate approach.

“Where you are not able to compete on a variety of equipment, you need to compete on attention. The staff and coaches are giving very close and personal attention to the clients,” Ingel explains.

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To listen to Ingel in conversation with 702 and CapeTalk’s Africa Melane, click the audio player below: