A trend is gaining traction in the fitness world as private, single-gender gyms emerge to meet specific social needs. Jeff Hambrecht, who runs a Christian men-only facility called Proverbs 27:17 in Oklahoma City, describes his space as a way to remove potential distractions and build community around shared values. For Hambrecht, who overcame his own struggles with addiction, the gym provides a place for men to be honest about mental health and personal growth.
While some might view these spaces through the lens of cultural friction, gym owners see them as a direct response to member demand. Hambrecht notes that eliminating the social pressures found in traditional, co-ed facilities allows his members to focus on their training and their faith without the friction of everyday life. He stresses that the primary goal is creating an environment where men feel comfortable working on their character alongside their physical health.
This phenomenon extends beyond religious circles. Kim Abt, who operates a women-only gym called PWRGRLS in Sherman Oaks, California, reports that her classes filled up rapidly. For her members, the motivation is often about feeling secure rather than intimidated. Many women join to escape past harassment or simply to avoid the social discomforts sometimes present in large, commercial gyms.
Fitness industry observers acknowledge the shift. Brad Jensen, a longtime industry figure, suggests that while some might find the idea of gender-segregated gyms controversial, the demand is clear. He notes that the rise of social media influencers promoting inappropriate content in public gyms has made many people feel uncomfortable, driving a search for more controlled workout settings where members can train without unwanted scrutiny.
As these gym models grow, they highlight a divergence in how people want to spend their time and energy. Whether centered on faith or personal comfort, these facilities offer a distinct alternative for those who feel regular commercial gyms no longer serve their specific lifestyle needs.