Shapes for Women gyms have become a familiar sight in many parts of South Africa. In the first of a series of articles about this business, the founders share their motivation for starting Shapes for Women.

Shapes for Women is South Africa’s first ladies-only fitness chain that is based on a concept that has taken the women’s fitness world by storm.

The concept is aimed at women who want to reap the benefits of an effective and affordable exercise programme in a comfortable, fun, no-pressure environment. The simple, structured workout takes only 30 minutes and is great for any age, any shape and any size. Best of all, there are no men at all in the gyms – even the staff is entirely female.

As a ladies-only gym, it is ironic that Shapes for Women is the brainchild of two men, Greg Ivins and Barry Owen. Says Ivins: ‘There are a great number of South African ladies who recognise the benefits of exercise, but don’t feel comfortable being on display in pretentious gym environments. At Shapes for Women there are no airs and graces and no “dress codes” - women are welcome at the gyms as they are and as they feel comfortable.’

Shapes for Women is a simple, fun and interactive circuit-based routine that assists women in losing centimetres and kilograms and also in toning their bodies. There are no classes, so ladies can come and go as they please without worrying about keeping up with other gym goers who might be fitter or younger than themselves. The exercise machines do not use intimidating weight stacks, but rather small hydraulic cylinders that are designed specifically for women’s exercise programmes. In essence, these cylinders allow for people of different abilities, strengths and fitness levels to use the same equipment without major adjustments being necessary. This of course means more time spent exercising and less time spent fiddling with confusing machines.

‘In short, Shapes for Women provides an exercise environment for those people who can’t be bothered with all the razzmatazz and ostentation associated with mainstream gyms,’ says Owen. ‘Exercise is not supposed to be intimidating, nor is it supposed to resemble a boot camp. The idea of a 30-minute workout in an environment with no make-up, no mirrors and no men is hugely appealing to the vast majority of ladies – and this is exactly what Shapes for Women offers.’

Shapes for Women has several facilities open around the country. Please see
www.shapesforwomen.co.za or contact 011 791 1838 for more details. All ladies are welcome to try Shapes for Women free of charge.

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