Fitness on an incline

Over a decade ago, gyms or fitness centers in Lebanon evoked images of steroid pumped men grunting loudly while lifting heavy weights, or leotard clad women enjoying aerobics classes led by smiley and energetic trainers with questionable training abilities. The Lebanese fitness industry has since grown significantly, inspired by global trends of wellness and healthy living. This growth stretches across the industry and manifests itself in the increased number of fitness centers, the variety of sports activities available and the rising awareness of the importance of hiring certified trainers. Growth in fitness Emile Baroody, Vice President of Baroody Group sal, a sports company established in 1912 which represents Technogym, a commercial fitness equipment brand, places the industry’s annual growth at about 15 to 20 percent over the last five years, based on his own estimates. Naji Saliba, managing director of Young Trading Co, established in 1997, which represents Life Fitness,