press release: GymNation
GymNation sees 3,000 sign-ups in 24 hours ahead of first Bahrain Gym opening
GymNation, the Middle East’s fastest-growing gym brand, has announced another record-breaking new country debut, selling 3,000 memberships in just 24 hours ahead of the opening of its first location in Bahrain, in Atrium Mall.
This marks the brand’s entry into its third GCC market, following rapid growth across the UAE and Saudi Arabia, where GymNation now operates a total of 34 locations with over 150,000 members.
As well as the Atrium Mall location, GymNation has also signed another Bahrain location in Oasis Plaza, Muharraq, which is scheduled to open in April 2026.
Each Bahrain location will span more than 35,000 square feet and operate 24/7, introducing a new standard for fitness facilities in the Kingdom. Purpose-built to serve a broad and diverse community, the gyms will deliver GymNation’s signature “People’s Gym” model, focused on affordability, accessibility, and inclusivity without compromising on quality.
Designed to offer premium fitness at an accessible price point, both gyms will feature state-of-the-art equipment and expansive training zones. Members will have access to dedicated group exercise studios for Hyrox, Reformer Pilates, Les Mills and more, alongside the largest free weights, cardio and machine-assisted zones in the country, as well as a dedicated recovery area and a fully equipped ladies-only section.
Since launching in the UAE in 2018, GymNation has disrupted the traditional fitness industry by challenging the perception that premium gyms must come with premium price tags. “The expansion marks yet another significant milestone in GymNation’s mission to make fitness affordable, accessible, and inclusive across the GCC,” said Loren Holland, Founder & CEO of GymNation.
“The gyms we are about to open in Bahrain are truly next-level, from the scale of the space to the combination of world-class facilities, equipment and design, as we have done in KSA and the UAE, we’re now going to raise the standard for what a gym can be in Bahrain.”
Josh Whiteley, KSA & Bahrain Country Director adds: “Our Bahrain expansion reinforces our commitment to the GCC’s growing fitness and wellness movement. We see a massive opportunity here and GymNation’s Atrium Mall pre-opening sign-up figures underscore the large appetite for high-quality, value-driven fitness in Bahrain.”
GymNation’s Bahrain expansion forms part of a wider regional growth strategy that will see the brand reach 60 open gyms and more than 300,000 members by the end of 2026, cementing its position as the largest fitness operator in the Middle East.
Frank Afeaki: founder and COO
Ant Martland, founder and CCO
William Rasmussen-Dean, country director
Ishan Patil, head of finance
Ian Mullane, board member
In 2026, GymNation plans to open another 20-30 locations across the GCC, and with many more in the pipeline our aim is to become the largest gym chain across the GCC.
Behind the scenes, we’re diligently advancing our position as a world leading operator in the integration of technology, artificial intelligence, and data analytics.
Our commitment extends beyond mere application, aiming to spearhead discussions and set benchmarks within the fitness industry and beyond, ensuring GymNation remains at the cutting edge of innovation.
We’re not just building gyms; our vision is to play a lead role as the region’s movement partner, championing healthy and active lifestyles alongside the importance of mental health and well-being.
