Shapes Wellness & Spa, UAE's largest group fitness centre opens in Dubai

Underlining the importance of wellness programs in reducing work-place stress, Sheikha Lubna asked companies to invest in their employees' fitness to reap greater employee productivity.

Shapes, located at Dubai Knowledge Village, is the first dedicated supervised group fitness facility in the region. Members stay motivated and gain measurable results as they go through a range of programs under the supervision of Shapes wellness professionals. The Shapes concept developed in Australia believes that it is enjoyable group activities that create sustainable exercise habits. Several leading global and regional health insurance companies including Marsh, Aviva and QIC support the programs offered by Shapes.

Commenting on the need for wellness facilities, Sheikha Lubna said, 'Wellness programs are becoming crucially necessary in our society. Long and challenging work schedules coupled with lack of frequent exercise are causing weight and stress problems. Companies can gain greater productivity if they helped enroll their executives into proven wellness programs.'

The Shapes facility has been designed for group activity which allows for enjoyable interaction and workout programs that result in weight loss, improved cardiac activity, flexibility and energy. The programs include circuit training, yoga, pilates, jazz aerobics, golf fitness, tae bo and core conditioning.

Speaking at the opening, Sam Rao, Program Manager at Shapes said, 'We are honoured to have Her Highness Sheikha Lubna Al Qasimi formally launch Shapes and endorse the programs offered. At Shapes our aim is to create fitness routines that are entertaining in a group setting. We are confident that our concept and special approach incorporating the best in wellness will be beneficial to people looking at long-term fitness gains'.

'With excellent facilities and expert personal trainers, our members from all walks of life can be assured of complete wellness with Shapes. We are confident that Shapes will be extremely popular among all those who care for better health in UAE,' he added.

Complementing the fitness facilities are a wide variety of spa services from nail care to beauty therapies using all natural products. On-site nutritionists ensure members avoid dangerous fad diets and instead develop healthy long-term eating habits.