Are you aware of this fantastic spot, especially for those of you who’ve just crossed over to ABH from UI? A place where the clinking of weights and the rhythm of energizing music meet the dedication of students pushing their limits every day. This place, as boldly written, is the ABH Gym—a space where strength is built, boundaries are tested, and personal goals become reality.
On Saturday, September 7th, exactly one month after the gym was renovated, the ABH Gym community came together for a special workout event. The day was filled with energy and excitement, featuring team workout competitions to add a bit of spice, opportunities for members to share their opinions about the newly renovated gym, and fitness tips and advice from experienced members. The atmosphere was further charged with refreshments and great music that kept everyone’s spirits high.
Jimoh Irfan, the Defense Minister of ABH and the driving force behind the gym’s recent upgrades, kicked off the event with an introductory speech. He promised that the day would be filled with fun competitions and encouraged everyone to voice their suggestions for future improvements. He also assured us that the gym would continue to evolve to meet the needs of its members.
The competitions began with a bang. The first pair—Ajibola and Gideon—completed 53 bench press reps in 3 minutes, showcasing their strength and endurance. While they were competing, the ladies continued their regular workouts, maintaining the intensity of the event. Next up was another pair with an impressive 47 reps in 3 minutes.
After a short break filled with great music that had everyone showing off their best dance moves, we resumed the workout. I teamed up with Irfan, and together we managed 41 reps in 3 minutes. At one point, I felt like my muscles were about to pop out! It was exhausting and painful, but as every gym-goer knows, pain is often a good sign of progress—true to the saying, “No pain, no gain.”
After another brief pause, we switched to bicep curls. Sam led with 30 reps, while I managed 21. We then moved on to squats, with both the boys and girls motivating each other through every set. The atmosphere was electric, filled with encouragement and support.
As the event drew to a close, Irfan gathered everyone for a feedback session to discuss possible improvements for the gym. Ope suggested adding punching bag equipment, while Derek recommended more dumbbells to accommodate the growing number of gym members. Some of the guys mentioned the need for more cables for resistance training.
Femi noted the improvements in the gym’s cleanliness since the renovation and appreciated the changes. Ope shared her experience with leg workouts and emphasized the benefits of having a gym instructor. Adesewa,affectionately known as the “Gym Mummy,”who has also been a dedicated member since February, proudly demonstrated her bicep muscles, crediting the gym’s improvements for her consistency. She also highlighted the gym’s sense of family, noting how members reach out to those who miss sessions to encourage them back into their routine.
Some members humorously called out, “More plates, less cement!” in a bid for more weight plates. However, Jimoh explained that plates are expensive, and for now, they will stick with cement weights.
I suggested adding more padding to the equipment to reduce the risk of injury from repeated contact with metal surfaces. Vivian, a new member who joined two weeks ago, proposed having water refreshments available during workouts to keep everyone hydrated without needing to leave for a drink. She also praised the coaches for helping her navigate the various exercises and equipment.
So, what are you waiting for? Whether you’re a fitness newbie looking to start your journey or a seasoned athlete chasing your next big goal, the Alexander Brown Hall gym is here for you. Step inside, feel the energy, and become part of a community that lifts each other up—literally and figuratively. Join us today and discover just how far you can push your limits. Your next personal best is just one workout away!
