The gym
A sleek addition to Dubai’s gym scene, Talise Fitness’s design resembles a New York loft apartment. Offering extensive machines and free-weights equipment, plus a plethora of treadmills and cross-trainers, it caters to a wide spectrum of gym-goers. Of course, it also offers the prerequisite classes – they take place in a room that more resembles a nightclub than an exercise studio, and seem to attract a young professional
crowd that want to keep fit in a stylish way.

The promise
Expect ‘a fresh new approach to physical activity and wellbeing’ in inspiring surroundings, according to the management at Jumeirah.

Step by step
When I arrive, I’m shown to the very modern and fully equipped changing rooms (they look as though they’re located in a spa, rather than a gym), after which the fitness instructor conducts a body evaluation using state-of-the art machinery. It includes an analysis of my body fat, muscle growth and protein intake, which can then be used to guide my future exercise routine. I’m then issued my own ‘key’, which can be used to store my workouts to make sure I push myself on every visit. I’m then shown around the gym and given detailed tutorials on how to use all the machines, dissolving any apprehension I have about being a gym newbie.

The result
In an image-conscious place such as Dubai, Talise Fitness fits right in: it’s a place to be seen, attracting a stylish young crowd (even though you’ll leave a sweaty mess), but with enough experience behind it to cater for fitness fanatics.

Pros
• Stylish and sleek surroundings.
• State-of-the-art gym equipment that’s all box fresh.
• Patient and friendly staff.
• A smart changing area.

Cons
• There are no windows, which is a shame given the views the area has to offer.
• It’s quite small, and could get crowded during peak hours.
• It would have been interesting to see real books instead of ‘bookshelf’ wallpaper.

3/5
Annual membership Dhs7,000 (women), Dhs8,000 (men), Dhs12,000 (couples). Introductory offer until Friday August 31: four months Dhs2.500 (women), Dhs3,000 (men), Dhs5,000 (couples). Minimum membership four months. Jumeirah Emirates Towers (04 319 8660).