Women's community gym fights to stay open

The popular Burn Fitness women's gym in the Sydney suburb of Lakemba is battling to stay open as a result of its landlord, the Australian National Sports Club having terminated its lease.

Providing a fitness service for women, and Muslim women in particular, the gym provides a non-threatening, non-judgemental and safe environment to exercise and has played a significant role over recent years in helping women members in combating obesity, managing mental health and ultimately boosting self-esteem.

However, the Australian National Sports Club (ANSC) has recently taken the decision to end Burn Fitness’ lease.

Burn Fitness owner Rowah Hassan explains the value of the facility, commenting “(this) is a ladies only community gym that has seen many women come through the doors suffering many health issues like anxiety, diabetes, obesity and much more.

“Burn Fitness is a safe environment where woman of all ages and cultures were welcome and we’re left feeling as comfortable as like it was their second home.”

The Sydney fitness leader, who also operates the Fun Fit Kidz Gym, is calling on ANSC executives to continue to allow Burn Fitness in its present model “to meet the demands of your community”.

She has opened an online petition calling for support to urge the ANSC to renew Burn Fitness’ lease.

Founded as a football club, ANSC teams have competed in Canterbury District Soccer Football Association competitions since the 1970s and has played a significant role in a community that has a predominant Muslim population with Arab origins.

It describes itself as “playing a pivotal role in creating a positive environment for various cultures to come together, particularly the Arabic speaking community, by promoting family values and encouraging youth participation in activities that assist in building confidence and self-esteem.”

With backing from the NSW Government and Canterbury City Council the Club developed its current 2,000 metre² indoor sporting and recreation complex at Parry Park on the Punchbowl Road in 2003.

The facility includes indoor sports courts, community meeting rooms, mezzanine level containing seating and a terrace overlooking the Parry Park’s playing fields and the space currently occupied by Burn Fitness.

Click here to view Rowah Hassan’s petition to keep Burn Fitness operating at the ANSC.

ANSC has been contacted for comment.

Images: Burn Fitness (top) and the Australian National Sports Club's sport and recreation complex at Parry Park (below). 

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