Stepping into the newly inaugurated Gold's Gym at Bashundhara Sports City, one is immediately struck by a powerful quote from Joe Gold, the gym chain's legendary founder: “That's the object of going to a gym, having fun.”
And fun is exactly what awaits here along with a revolutionary approach to fitness that is setting new standards across Asia.
With world-class equipment, state-of-the-art wellness treatments and a space designed for ultimate transformation, this gym is not just about working out; it is about redefining what fitness can be in Bangladesh.
The inauguration event on Thursday saw heartfelt speeches from the key figures behind this world-class facility, beginning with Safwan Sobhan, the Vice Chairman of Bashundhara Group.
With gratitude and reverence, he acknowledged the vision of Bashundhara Group Chairman Ahmed Akbar Sobhan, who was instrumental in bringing this state-of-the-art gym to life.
“First of all, I want to thank our Honourable Chairman for his vision in creating this sports city. He always says 'Health is wealth.' If we do not invest in health, what good is wealth? This vision has led to the creation of this incredible Gold's Gym, the Rolls-Royce of gyms, equipped with the finest machines, including Technogym's cutting-edge equipment. There is no other gym like this in the entire subcontinent,” he said.
And much like the iconic Rolls-Royce brand, which is synonymous with unparalleled luxury and craftsmanship, Gold's Gym offers an experience that is second to none. The finest materials, the latest technology and a commitment to perfection are at the heart of this facility, making it the gold standard of fitness in the region.
But this gym is not just about equipment but about a 360-degree approach to well-being.
Anisul Islam Bobby, the Chief Operations Officer, said the gym is designed not only for physical fitness but also for overall health and wellness.
“We have the biggest pool in Bangladesh, with a 50-metre swimming pool dedicated to Olympic swimmers, and a separate pool for females. We also have the highest diving standards in the country,” he said.
“For the first time in Bangladesh, we are introducing Himalayan salt therapy, cryotherapy, cold plunge, and onsen-style hot jacuzzi pools. This facility includes Technogym Italy equipment- everything imported from Italy. It is called the Rolls-Royce of fitness equipment. When our members use it, they will feel the difference.”
The gym features a three-storey design that covers all aspects of fitness. The first floor is a dedicated Female Zone, providing a private and comfortable environment for women. The second floor is home to the Cardio Zone, featuring Technogym Skillrun treadmills and ellipticals, providing a complete cardiovascular workout. The third floor is reserved for Resistance Training, offering an extensive range of weights and machines, including the Technogym ARTIS line.
Each floor can accommodate around 200-250 people at a time, giving the gym ample space to cater to a high number of members with a total capacity of 700+ people across the entire gym at once. This massive space speaks to the gym's sheer scale and its ability to handle large crowds without feeling cramped.
And what truly enhances the experience here is the soothing view of the expansive pool, visible from the third floor, creating a peaceful, calming atmosphere while you work out.
The facility's holistic approach extends beyond physical fitness.
Bobby emphasised, “All our trainers are world-class. We have 21 trainers who are experts in their fields. Some are former Mr. Bangladesh titleholders, others are international athletes. We have physiotherapists, a combat gym, Zumba, yoga, and dance fitness- we have everything. From fitness and wellness to holistic services, we have left nothing out. This is the one place for transformation in Bangladesh.”
In addition to the specialised fitness areas, Gold's Gym offers unique wellness treatments.
“We have an ice bath, a cryotherapy room and a Himalayan salt bath room where Himalayan salt is infused into the air inside an air-conditioned room,” said Bobby.
“When you breathe in there, it helps clear your lungs. For those with asthma or breathing issues, it helps relieve them. It increases stamina, aids recovery and reduces inflammation. We have introduced all of this here for the first time in Bangladesh. Even in India, they do not have some of these features.”
With such advanced facilities, it is no surprise that Rifat Saifur Rahman, a member and CEO of an IT firm, has loved his experience at the gym so far.
“This is by far the biggest and best fitness facility in Bangladesh. The service is phenomenal. It is not just a gym; it is a complete wellness destination. The combination of cardio sessions, swimming and even a space for Taekwondo training makes this a one-stop solution for fitness enthusiasts,” he said.
His own experience reflected the growing trend of gyms becoming social spaces.
“It's like a meeting zone. Normally, people go to one place for the gym, then another place for recreation. But here, you can get everything together. After your workout, you can relax, go swimming and there is a coffee shop. In a short time, this will become the top-tier meeting hub in Bangladesh.”
Emphasising the gym's priority to service, Safwan Sobhan said, “Service comes first. If the service is not good, nothing else matters- no matter how great the equipment, no matter how beautiful the facility. We want our members to have the best experience possible, and that is our number one priority. So, I urge our operations team to always be humble, kind and helpful. That is the kind of environment we want to create.”
Gold's Gym has been running on trial since March this year. Bobby said they are 100 percent ready to deliver their services.
“We are 100 percent ready to deliver our services. We are confident about our ability. Over the last two months, we conducted a trial run, identified gaps and closed them. We observed what members want to use and how they want to use it. All our rules and regulations are in place. We are fully ready,” he said.
As an added benefit for employees, Bashundhara Group and East West Media Group staff can avail themselves of a generous 60 percent discount on memberships.
“This is a gift from the Chairman to all Bashundhara Group and East West Media Group employees, along with their families and friends,” said Safwan Sobhan.
“We want to make sure everyone has access to this world-class facility.”
Gold's Gym at Bashundhara Sports City sets a new bar for fitness in the region.
As the gym becomes the go-to space for both fitness and relaxation, it is clear that this is more than a workout- it is the future of well-being. In a place where service is the priority and every corner exudes luxury, it is easy to see why Gold's Gym is poised to be the top fitness hub in Bangladesh. This is not just a gym- it is a lifestyle.
bd-pratidin/GR
