Culture and fitness: Finding the perfect gym for Muslim women
Embracing fitness as a Muslim woman comes with unique challenges, but having the right approach, it is achievable.
Finding a suitable gym can be challenging, especially for a Muslim woman.
For many Muslim women, balancing faith, modesty, and fitness can be challenging. This is because many gyms have loud music, mixed-gender spaces, and people wearing revealing gym wear.
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However, staying active is essential for overall well-being, so many women tend to work out at home, rather than working out at a gym.
It is possible to navigate the gym culture while staying true to your values.
Step 1: Find the right gym
Choosing a perfect gym that aligns with your comfort and needs is key. Different gyms now offer "women-only sections" for female members. These spaces provide privacy and a comfortable environment for working out.
A Good example of a female-only gym in the heart of Eastleigh is Fitness Empire gym, Lifetime Fitness, Leijona Gym at Nasra Garden, Next Gen Fitness in Next Gen Mall and Velocity Gym in Kileleshwa among others. The gyms also come with female trainers and have private spaces for group classes like aerobics.
Some gyms also have designated prayer areas, making it easier to maintain religious obligations before or after your workout.
Step 2: Dressing modestly for the gym
With the right clothing choices, staying modest while exercising is very possible.
When shopping for gym wear whether in a mall, at the market or shopping online, consider the following:
1. Loose activewear
Go for wide-leg sweatpants, long-sleeve tops or light jackets to ensure coverage while allowing free movement.
2. Breathable hijabs
Ensure you get sport hijabs made from lightweight material to prevent overheating and ensure comfort during a workout.
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Many stores online now offer hijabs designed for active women. In case you wear tights, some light palazzo pants can provide extra coverage.
You can check out popular markets like Gikomba, Toi or sports centres. If shopping online, Amazon and deenin.com are where you can shop exclusively for modest working-out clothes.
Step 3: Pick a class and a workout
Choose the kind of fitness routines you want to follow: An easy way to figure this out is through online communities, taking women-only classes like Yoga, hiking, tennis, Zumba or strength training classes exclusive for women.
If you do not feel confident enough, using fitness applications and home workouts can allow you to exercise at home at your convenience.
Step 4: Overcome anxiety and overthinking
Regardless of whether you have a good place to work out to exercise, make a firm intention to spend a specific number of hours in a week, stick with your intention and look forward to that time.
If you are feeling shy, you can opt to go with a friend for support or choose 'off-peak' hours to go when the gym is less crowded.
Do not be afraid to ask for help from a trainer if you are a beginner. You can always start with low-impact exercises as you build confidence over time.
Embracing fitness as a Muslim woman comes with unique challenges, but having the right approach, it is achievable.
The most important thing is to prioritize your health, have a routine, and build confidence. Every step brings you closer to a healthier and stronger version of yourself, whether you choose to work out at home or a gym.
Good luck!
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