In Lagos, the gym isn’t just for crunches and cardio anymore — it’s quietly becoming a go-to space for connections, conversations, and even courtship.
What started as a boom in fitness culture across Nigeria is now evolving into something more social — and occasionally controversial. While many hit the gym for the sake of health and hustle, others appear more invested in selfies, conversations, and the occasional flirtation than actual reps.
Mr. Folarin Adekoya, who frequents a gym in Ikeja, said the vibe has definitely shifted.
“Sometimes, it feels more like a runway than a workout space,” he said with a chuckle. “I’ve seen outfits that make you wonder if the goal is to break a sweat or break necks.”
He pointed out that while some gym-goers genuinely come to train, others seem more preoccupied with how they appear on Instagram than on the treadmill.
Echoing the sentiment, Jason Onwuka, a gym enthusiast from Festac, shared his mixed feelings.
“The gym’s a great place to stay motivated, but it’s also become a bit of a social lounge,” he said. “You’ll see people chatting, giggling, flirting — and barely breaking a sweat.”
Jason, however, isn’t completely against the social evolution of fitness spaces. He believes it’s simply a reflection of modern-day society.
“People are more isolated now, and they’re looking for new spaces to connect. If the gym fills that gap for some, that’s okay — as long as it doesn’t interfere with others’ goals,” he said.
He also noted that not everyone is contributing to the distraction.
“Professional women, for instance, usually come in dressed for movement, not attention. Leggings, tights — it’s all functional,” Jason added.
Recently, the debate was amplified after reality TV star Teddy A raised concerns about indecent dressing at the gym. In a candid video posted online, he urged gym-goers — especially women — to be mindful of their attire, warning that it could lead to potential bans.
His take set social media ablaze. While some supported stricter dress codes, others accused him of overreacting and blamed the critics for not staying focused.
A gym manager in Ajah, who requested anonymity, shared that they’ve had to quietly set guidelines around dressing and conduct.
“We want a space where everyone feels respected. But honestly, people come to gyms for different reasons — and for some, that includes socializing,” he said. “As long as it’s not disruptive, we try to be flexible.”
At the heart of it, Lagos gyms seem to be reflecting a broader societal shift — where fitness and fun, wellness and romance, can sometimes coexist in the same space.
