A number of Gyms in Yangon have reopened since 1 June with several precautions and restrictions. Along with the list of reopened gyms, we’ve shared suggestions from the experts on working out in the “new normal”.
Although many gyms in Yangon instruct their members to wear masks during a workout, coaches and bodybuilders don’t think it’s a good idea.
Naing Oo, founder/coach of the Myanmar Fitness Trainer Academy, tells Myanmore: “When we work out wearing a mask, our bodies don’t get enough oxygen. It can lead to dizziness and fainting. So, I don’t recommend it.”
The fitness instructor further said that he believed keeping a safe distance from others, disinfecting the equipment regularly and washing hands before working out were more effective to prevent oneself from COVID-19 in gyms.
His view is seconded by Thet Thet Wai, a bodybuilder who is better known as Bora.
She says: “I don’t wear a mask while working out. It’s annoying. I don’t recommend it, also. If you really have to wear a mask, lower the intensity of your workout and avoid sprints, CrossFit and HIIT (High Intensity Interval Training).”
Thet Thet Wai (Credit: Bora – Myanmar Fitness Queen Facebook)So, our advice is to follow social distancing guidelines and keep yourself and your workout gears clean. If your gym requires you to wear a mask, consult with your doctor first.
Here are some of the gyms that are ready to train you (in an alphabetical order).
All of the three branches have been reopened. It’s also streaming online classes on its Facebook. The monthly fee is US$150 but it has promotion for memberships over 6 months.
BALANCE I
No. 64 (G), Kyitewine Pagoda Road, Mayangone Township, Yangon.
(+95 1) 656916
BALANCE II
No. 103, the corner of University Avenue Road and Thanlwin Street, Bahan Township, Yangon.
(+95 1) 539609
BALANCE III
No. (54), Ahlone Street, Dagon Township, Yangon.
(+95 9) 790570777
Hours: 6am – 9pm
If you’re looking for functional training and nutrition advice, check this place out. Before making any commitments, you can try their 7 Days Trial for 7 dollars.
Address: Marketplace 6.5 Miles, Pyay Road, Hlaing Township, Yangon.
Phone: 09 964 445455
Hours: 7am – 8pm
The Thingangyun and Mawtin branches have been open for a limited time, 9am to 5pm, but the Hlaing has not yet. If you make membership at the Thingangyun branch at Ks120,000 per month, you can join the others. Or join only at the Mawtin for Ks80,000. All three places have a swimming pool.
Thingangyun branch
Malikha Housing, Yadanar Road, Thingangyun Township, Yangon.
Mawtin branch
Level 5, Junction Mawtin, Lanmadaw Township, Yangon.
Phone: 09 964 165 000
Hours: 9am – 5pm
Both of its branches have been open but you have to book in advance by calling the reception at 6am for morning classes and 2pm for evening classes. The fee is $135 for the Inya branch and Ks95,000 for the U Chit Maung.
Inya branch
132-A , Inya Road, Myanmar Rowing & Canoeing Federation, Yangon.
09 963 584 601
U Chit Maung branch
S/4 U Chit Maung Housing, U Chit Maung Road, Tamwe, Yangon.
09 426 513 001
Hours: 6am – 10pm
It allows a maximum of 15 people for every ninety minutes. Therefore, call them and book first. A standard membership for 3 months will cost you $240.
Real Fitness @ Golden Valley
No.20, Pearl Street, Golden Valley Ward, Bahan Township, Yangon.
(95) 09253 065582
Real Fitness @ Mindhama
No.68, Taw Win Rd, 9 Mile, Mayangone Township, Yangon.
(95) 0950 97057, 092548 77534
Real Fitness Signature @ Sedona Hotel Yangon (Corporate HQ)
Sedona Hotel No. 1, Kabar Aye Pagoda Road, Yankin Township, Yangon.
(95) 09262973677, 09262973675
Hours: 7am to 8:30pm (until the end of June)
Photo by Victor Freitas on UnsplashSince they are currently practising the booking system to control the crowd, every member is allowed 2 hours of gym usage interval per day. So you have to call them and book first. They’re now giving one month free if you buy the 3-month package at $200 within this month.
Address: Urban Asia Center, Corner of 48th Street & Maha Bandula Road, No. (10-H), 1st Floor, Botahtaung Township, Yangon.
Phone: 09 45888 7272
Hours: 6:30am – 8:30pm
One of the more cost-effective options for fitness enthusiasts. All of its 10 branches have been reopened and the monthly rates vary from Ks35,000 to Ks50,000 depending on the locations. Find the nearest gym here.
Phone: 09 44119 7046
Hours: 6am – 10pm (Sunday off)
To keep at least six feet of distance they’re strategically blocking off equipment, suspending the group exercise classes, and limiting 5 members every hour. So, you’ll have to register first before going. They’re on phased opening and 7 of their branches have been open so far. The monthly membership fee can cost you around Ks70,000.
Phone: 09 45052 7779
Hours: 7am – 11am / 3pm – 8pm (Sunday off)
