Olympic Medalist and Boxing Trainer Ecstatic as GymNation Expands in Dubai with Major Acquisition
In a game-changing move for the fitness landscape in Dubai, GymNation has secured a landmark deal to acquire the entire floor of Fitness First Motor City and the floor above it at the Control Tower. This acquisition, finalized with National Properties, part of the National Bonds Corporation, represents a significant leap for GymNation’s expansion plans. The ambitious project, valued at AED 70 million ($19.58 million), is set to transform the gym into one of the world’s largest and most advanced fitness centers, much to the delight of Olympic bronze medalist and boxing trainer Tony Jeffries.
A New Era of Fitness in Dubai
The acquisition will see GymNation’s existing 30,000 square feet facility expand to over 55,000 square feet. This new space will be dedicated to creating an unparalleled fitness experience, blending state-of-the-art equipment with innovative facilities. The new gym will feature specialized areas for Reformer Pilates, boxing, wellness, and BLITZ Boutique HIIT. Adding to the excitement, the UAE’s largest recovery facility will be integrated, offering a comprehensive range of amenities including saunas, ice baths, sports massages, and assisted stretching. Notably, the gym will also house Dubai’s first indoor uphill running track and the Middle East’s first dedicated Hyrox Performance Centre.
Tony Jeffries, the 2008 Beijing Olympics bronze medalist and a fitness entrepreneur himself, expressed his enthusiasm on social media. In an Instagram story, Jeffries shared his admiration for the expansion, stating, “This is so inspiring! As a fitness gym owner myself since 2012, reading this really inspires me.” He praised Loren Holland, GymNation’s Founder and CEO, for leading such a groundbreaking initiative, remarking, “What Loren and the team have done and are doing is truly next level. I’m so proud to partner with this amazing company, with my boxing fitness group class biz @boxingfitnessconnect studio.”
Reacting to this acquisition, Jeffries turned to his Instagram stories today, writing, “This is so inspiring! As a fitness gym owner myself since 2012, reading this really inspires me”. He further praised the Founder and CEO of GymNation, Loren Holland, claiming, “What Loren and the team have done and are doing is truly next level. I’m so proud to partner with this amazing company, with my boxing fitness group class biz @boxingfitnessconnect studio”.
He also wrote on Instagram, “I don’t think there’s going to be a gym in the world as good as this!! Can’t wait to get back there…”
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Loren Holland’s Vision for the Future
Loren Holland’s vision for GymNation is to continuously push the boundaries of what a gym can offer. Speaking to Construction Week, Holland highlighted the strategic importance of the AED 70 million investment, saying, “Motor City is one of our top-performing locations, but we’ve outgrown our current capacity due to the rapid growth in the area.” This expansion is not just about increasing space; it’s about setting new standards in the fitness industry.
The project, advised by David Abood of Cushman & Wakefield and lawyer Sean Cope from DLA Piper, reflects GymNation’s commitment to delivering world-class facilities at an affordable price. Holland also hinted at future plans, revealing, “We’re also planning exciting enhancements” for other GymNation locations in Dubai and Abu Dhabi.
Motor City is one of our top-performing locations, but we’ve outgrown our current capacity due to the rapid growth in the area.”
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The Impact on the Community
The expansion is expected to have a substantial impact on the local community, offering a top-tier fitness experience that caters to a diverse range of fitness enthusiasts. For Tony Jeffries, the new gym represents a personal milestone. He expressed his eagerness to visit Dubai specifically to train in the new facility once it’s completed, underscoring the gym’s anticipated role as a premier destination for fitness aficionados.
As the fitness world watches closely, GymNation’s bold move is poised to redefine the standard for gyms not just in Dubai, but globally. The fusion of cutting-edge equipment and luxurious recovery amenities will likely set a new benchmark for fitness facilities everywhere.
