There are few places for a gym that are as obscure as Designed Fitness. It’s possibly one of the most secret locations in Chinatown, tucked away on the second floor of a shop-house on Smith Street, with just a poster plastered to the door, then when you walk up the staircase, you could easily miss it. All that effort pays off though once you actually enter the gym. The modern interior is quiet, tidy and surprisingly spacious. Only the impressive array of gym equipment, imported from the US, reminds us that it’s a gym rather than a spa.
Principal trainer Erik Gunawan told us about his workout and exercise beliefs. Trained in the US with professional mentors, yet proud to be Indonesian with a background in pencak silat (a Malay martial arts form), Erik’s affable personality marks him as the least intimidating personal trainer we’ve come across. He was clear, concise with instructions, cheerful and patient. But don’t underestimate him and his core-focused exercise regiment—the afterburn effect from the workout lasted for hours.
Overall, we absolutely dig the place. Not only is it accessible, but it’s also a welcome change from your average pressure cooker gym. You have a gentleman of a personal trainer who won’t push you too far; high tempo one-on-one sessions in a private setting, and hear this, a shower room all to yourself. We love the philosophy of this gym—it’s all about the sharing of knowledge, personalized training and results. If you need a space where you can let it all out without feeling self-conscious, look no further.
