Popular Western Sydney women's gym reopens in Bankstown

Forced to exit its former premises in the Sydney suburb of Lakemba when its landlord, the Australian National Sports Club, terminated its lease, popular women’s gym Burn Fitness has reopened in a new location at South Terrace Plaza, Bankstown.

Offering cardio equipment, a strength training room, group fitness, personal and functional training, and a climbing wall along with onsite parking and child minding, Burn Fitness’ provides a non-threatening, non-judgemental and safe environment in which women can exercise.

Commenting on the relocation, Burn Fitness owner Rowah Hassan explains “(it) has been nothing short of tough and emotional (but) we have accepted what is and just started to settle.

“We have had mixed feedback from existing clients, with some liking the new location while others wanting to cancel their memberships as it’s no longer convenient as they don’t drive.”

With the Australian National Sports Club having maintained that the space formerly occupied by the gym was to be used by a new leasee, Hassan stated “it has disappointing to see the space that Burn Fitness once leased is still empty and yet to be leased, yet when I asked for more time to move out they declined with the note that someone has already paid a bond and awaiting my exit.”

Looking forward, Hassan adds “everything is starting to settle as new clients come through our doors with members giving great feedback on what we offer.

“We are going to push forward and still service the women in our community by keeping our prices low and building a safe environment for them to get fit and healthy (and) we have big plans to extend in the New Year.”

Providing a fitness service for mainly Muslim women Burn Fitness has played a significant role over recent years in helping its members in combating obesity, managing mental health and ultimately boosting self-esteem.

Hassan concludes “I love what I do and will always find a way forward, I’ll never give up on the women in our community for as long as I am fit and healthy.”

Image: Burn Fitness owner Rowah Hassan with some of the gym's members.