Bend it like Bhenji

Who says gyms are only for the smug, toned healthy minority? This women's-only gym in Vile Parle has something for (almost) everyone

Are you tired of swanky gyms, exorbitant annual fees and personal trainers that look like Arnold Schwarzenegger? Then, X-ER-SISE gym might be for you. I knew I was in for something 'different' when I saw the Sai Baba shrine at the entrance, accompanied by a sign that read: Please take your shoes off.u00a0


Mandovi (centre) gives the workout a shot. Pic/ Anuja Gupta

On entering, the atmosphere, seemed familial, almost as if one expected the clients at this women's-only gym to be exchanging recipes for curry with the instructor."We believe in personalised service, which is why you'll find we're on a first-name basis with almost all our clients," says Ritu Shah, owner.

X-ER-SISE has something for every woman. Be it power yoga to spinning to bhangra kick-boxing, they offer group activities everyday from 6:30 in the morning to 6:30 in the evening. They focus on cardio on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays and body toning activities, including pilates and power yoga on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturday, The space was a welcome change, as compared to so many other stuffy gyms. The place has three separate studios. An actual gymming area was connected to a room that had been converted into a studio to conduct workshops and group activities, and an extra room only for spinning.u00a0

On the downside, the gym equipment is a little outdated, and since the surya namaskar didn't start with a namaste I was inclined to believe this might not be their field of expertise. Either way, my body felt rested and worked-out, so a good stretch is a good stretch.

If you're looking for a place that is going to give you a serious body makeover and muscle-definition, then look elsewhere. But if you are looking for a place that mixes things up, where you can meet new people, and have fun while you get a light workout then, look no further. Not to mention they are reasonably priced so, don't worry about burning any holes in your pocket.

Coming soon
X-ER-SISE will conduct a two and a half hour workshop incorporating five 30-minute workout techniques. Some of the techniques include:
1) Masala Bhangra with kick-boxing
2) Interval training
3) Item queen dance masti, where participants let loose to the latest item numbers.
4) Core pilates
5) Pranayam

At: Matru Chhaya, Dadabhai X Road, 3, Vile Parle (W).
Call: 26716084 or 9819788767
For: Rs 1,500 (per monthly membership) and Rs 9,000 (for annual gym membership); Rs 1,200 (for monthly membership) and Rs 9,000 (for annual membership) for group activities