In a city where fitness spaces are still largely male-dominated, Shabana Khatun stands out as a determined force creating space for women to thrive. Owner of a ladies-only gym, she has been on a mission to empower women through movement, mindfulness, and a strong sense of community.

Shabana’s journey into fitness began at the age of 20. What started as personal interest soon turned into a deeper calling. “Fitness was never just about how I looked,” she shares. “It became about how I felt. Strong, Focused, and Clear.” Four years ago, she took a leap of faith and opened her own gym. Since then, the space has grown into more than a fitness center, it’s a support system for women from all walks of life.

A Personal Evolution: Woman, Wife, Mother

Shabana reflects on how her identity has evolved over the years. “I was once a carefree girl with no responsibilities, no plans, just going with the flow,” she recalls. Today, she is a wife and a new mom. “My baby comes first now, but I’m proud that I haven’t lost myself in the process.”

She credits her ability to balance roles to the unwavering support of her husband and family which is something she knows many women lack. “That’s one of the reasons I created this gym,” she says. “To encourage every woman to make time for herself. Because when a woman is happy, she lifts everyone around her.”

Lessons in Letting Go

Running a business has come with its share of challenges, especially when it comes to dealing with people. “I’ve learned to say no,” Shabana says. “Once you know your worth, saying no isn’t rude but actually it’s self-respect.”

Fitness, for her, is much more than a daily habit. “Exercise feels like prayer. My gym is my sanctuary, a place where women come not just to work out, but to feel whole again.” And when the lows hit? “Sometimes I feel off, but then I hit the gym, and I’m okay again. That’s when I realize, it wasn’t sadness. I just needed to move.”

A Space of Sisterhood

More than a workout zone, her gym has become a space for friendship, fun, and healing. “Sometimes I look around and think, what if these women had met in school? The way they laugh, support each other. It’s beautiful.”

Her gym offers a wide range of group sessions:

• Zumba
• Yoga
• Aerobics and Mat Pilates
• Strength Training

But it’s the shared moments beyond workouts that define the space. From picnics and potlucks to Teej and Dar celebrations, it’s a place where women connect, unwind, and celebrate life together.

Fitness Isn’t Always Easy

Shabana is quick to acknowledge the unique challenges women face when it comes to fitness. “Hormonal changes like periods, pregnancy, postpartum, PCOS all affect our bodies and motivation. Consistency isn’t always easy.”

Her advice? Keep it simple and realistic. “Try working out 4–5 days a week. Eat home-cooked meals. It doesn’t have to be perfect.”

What troubles her most is how many women struggle not because they lack the will, but the support. “Even a 30-minute break can feel like a luxury when you’re surrounded by unsupportive people. I just wish more families understood the value of letting a woman breathe giving the time for herself.”

A Message to Every Woman

For those who’ve never stepped into a gym, Shabana offers reassurance: “Start small. A walk, a stretch, a jog. JUST MOVE. Your body will thank you.”

She believes the first step is the hardest but also the most powerful. “You don’t need perfection. You just need to begin. One hour a day for your body, your mind, and your health can change your life.”

And in that hour, women rediscover something essential: They were always stronger than they thought.

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