The first quality gymnasium in the private sector was South Avenue in Gulshan-1which started functioning exactly four years ago.

"At that time only hotels Sonargaon and Sheraton had good gyms. We felt that fitness centres should be considered as health maintenance establishments and should be spread across the city. Our vision took shape on June, 2000 and there was no looking back," said Murshed Sayeed, consultant and specialist for South Avenue.

While South Avenue played the pioneering role, the idea quickly generated excitement among other interested parties. Soon Sports Zone was set up in Mohakhali, Thunderbolt emerged in Dhanmondi, Ratan's and the women-only Leap opened in Gulshan and finally the exclusive Gold's Gym chain centre came into being. And according to gym instructors, business is booming.

"We had introduced equipment from the Life Fitness brand from the very beginning to gain the confidence of the clients," said Numayr Enam, director marketing of Thunderbolt.

"What these gyms provide are convenient locations, top quality equipment, wonderful atmosphere, good instructors and most importantly, a sense of security," said Shahriar Taha of Gulshan while working out at South Avenue.

Anwar Hossain, a businessman and a regular member of Thunderbolt and many others echoed the same sentiment.

"Although new gym users may not see results in the first couple weeks of working out, they will most definitely start to feel better. After some time, they can start noticing the difference," says Israar Khan, senior manager of Gold's Gym in Bashundhara City.

"We have also added cardiovascular equipment from Startrack, Flex Strength machines and Ivanko free weights which are globally renowned and offer the best quality service. Because of our initiative, Startrack has decided to market its products in Bangladesh as it is a brand for the Gold's Gym chain," Khan informed.

Almost all of these gyms maintain a separate duration exclusively for women. Gold's Gym however, has an independent floor for ladies.

Most of them offer steam rooms, sauna, Jacuzzis, personal lockers and aerobics classes with special instructors.Gold's Gym even has a swimming pool.

People of different age groups prefer to use the gyms at their convenience. Mothers and housewives mostly come around in the morning.

"After dropping off my child at school, I had nothing better to do in the past other than chatting with fellow parents. But joining the gym has made me feel fresher and it is also a constructive way to pass time," said Shaila Rahman.

Students usually arrive around noon and stay till late evening. Office executives on the otherhand, can be found working out till midnight, informed Murshed Sayeed and Numayr Enam.

The rising popularity of these health centres is excellent news for entrepreneurs believed owners of most gyms. Membership is also increasing by the day.

"The government should treat these gyms from the health point of view and not as entertainment centres. Doctors and experts always stress on the importance of exercising and staying on a healthy diet. Since we are supporting that cause, our establishments should be considered under the health sector. The 15 percent VAT on health equipment should be lowered to encourage this thriving business," said Sayeed.