Gymming in Bombay

I have finally joined a gym in Bombay. Yes, this is longest since high school that I haven't had access to a proper gym.

I'm now a member of Gold's Gym on Napean Sea Rd--despite it's name and dubious international pedigree is apparently one of the nicest gyms in all of Mumbai. And no, despite the hype, it's no Equinox on Park Ave.

Expectedly, gymming in India (a country with a complicated fitness relationship) has brought with it some pleasant/unpleasant surprises. Here they go:

1) My gym has a DJ.

Let's let that one sink in for a second. Ok, now. India has always had a strong relationship with music and dancing (see any bollywood movie). We are a loud and proud country. The Gym DJ is good but the beats he mixes are so raucous, no iPod has any chance of triumph.

2) Lots of helpful signs


At first, I thought, is that sign really necessary? Then I walked to the stretching area. Yes, it's most definitely necessary.

3) People who walk on treadmills

Especially when I'm at the gym in the evening, 90% of the treadmills are being by used by people who are walking on them 100% of the time. I don't get it. Have these people forgotten the fact that it is actually possible for human beings to walk outside--not particularly stressful or dangerous as compared to running outside I have been told.


Anyway, let's see how this MWF 8am training routine is going to go. Wish me luck!