GymNation has launched what it says is the region’s first Muscle Thobe and Ghutra collection, a new athleisure range inspired by the lifestyles of Gulf fitness enthusiasts and designed to blend cultural identity with modern fitness culture.
Initially available in Saudi Arabia, the collection includes a performance-inspired thobe and ghutra, with the company planning to expand the range to include kanduras and other products across the GCC.
According to GymNation, the collection was developed in response to feedback from its members as fitness participation continues to grow across the region. The company cited its latest fitness survey, which found that 94% of respondents aspire to be healthier, while 43% said they had increased their spending on health and fitness over the past year.
The Muscle Thobe is designed as a pre- and post-workout garment using four-way stretch, moisture-wicking fabric. GymNation said it is intended for use before and after exercise, while commuting to the gym or for casual social settings, rather than during workouts. The matching Ghutra features the traditional silhouette in the company’s signature colours.
GymNation said the idea emerged through conversations with members about bridging their fitness identity and cultural identity. The company added that it worked with members and cultural advisers to ensure the garments respected local traditions while reflecting contemporary lifestyles.
The launch follows a broader trend in the global sportswear industry, where brands have introduced products tailored to the needs of specific communities.
Rory McEntee, Chief Marketing Officer at GymNation, said: “What’s important about this launch is that it came from our members. We’ve been building a fitness community across the Gulf and this idea came from listening to that community. Over the years we’ve seen a new generation become increasingly passionate about fitness, performance and personal wellbeing, while remaining deeply connected to their culture and traditions. We wanted to combine gym community and local culture in a way that felt authentic and respectful. We’ve spoken to members, researched the idea extensively and worked closely with advisors to get it right.”
Abdulrahman Abdullah Almubayyed, a GymNation member from Riyadh, said: “Fitness has become a huge part of life for my generation. We spend time training, competing in events and taking our health seriously, but our culture remains a big part of who we are. What I like about this collection is that it doesn’t try to replace tradition but instead embraces it. It feels like something created by people who understand how young Saudis live today. It’s modern, but it’s still recognisably ours.”
