For ladies only

E xercise centres catering only for women make the activity far more relaxing for them, writes Kasmiah Mustapha

Aida (right) has set up a women-only fitness centre with Nur Amelia Abdul Wahab (left) and Amalia Syakirah Alia.

Aida teaching zumba classes. Abdul Wahab and Amalia Syakirah Alia, set up a women-only dance workout and Muay Thai centre.

The centre, Uni3Fit Evo, in TTDI Jaya, Shah Alam offers zumba, pound fitness, masalabhangra, piloxing, salsation, jazzercise and Muay Thai.

Women-only exercise centres are not a new concept to Aida. In 2012, she

Aida also teaches Muay Thai to beginners.

established a women-only gymnasium in Section 16, Shah Alam and also designed workout attire for women.

Unfortunately, she had to close her gym and stop producing the attire a few years ago. But that didn’t deter Aida from focusing on teaching women-only classes.

“We wanted a women-only space so ladies would feel comfortable exercising as there wouldn’t be men around. Tudungwearing women can also safely take off their headscarves in such an environment.

“It is important to provide a space for womentohavefun and keep fit and healthy. One of the reasons most women cite for not exercising is that they don’t want to with men around. They also prefer women instructors. At this centre, they have both,” says Aida.

Aida also teaches zumba and masala bhangra routines at Lembah Kiara Park in Taman Tun Dr Ismail from 8am to 9am every Sunday.

At times, she and other instructors arrange sessions of four aerobic workouts — zumba, masala bhangra, Bollywood fitness and mixed dance.

“I was first given the opportunity to teach at the park 10 years ago. I love seeing people from all ages join the sessions. To ensure they return, the dance routine has to be interesting and suitable for all.

“The most important thing is that they enjoy the exercises.”

She believes that people should make exercise a part of their daily routine and not view it as a hobby. When exercise is ingrained as a way of life, one is able to manage one’s weight better.

“To manage weight, 30 per cent is from exercise and 70 per cent is from our diet. Exercise alone will not prevent chronic illnesses but it can slow down or reduce the risks.

“To make sure we get the full benefits, we have to exercise three times a week for 40 minutes. For impact, the exercise must be high intensity. If you cannot engage in high-intensity exercise, a dance workout is best.”