The Covid-19 outbreak has overshadowed every aspect of life in the city. Although last month, the lockdown was officially lifted before being re-imposed a few weeks later, the risk to leave the house for anything other than emergency requirements has remained. All this has negatively impacted the health of the people. With very little (safe) access to gymnasiums, many feel trapped indoors with a limited space — and, often, a lack of motivation — for home workouts.

Adapting to this new normal, an open-air, roof-top space dedicated to health and wellness that functions under stringent safety protocols was recently opened on Main Boulevard, Gulberg, by the name, The Dojo, Japanese for a place of training or immersive learning. Traditionally, it’s a place where professionals practice martial arts.

The place currently offers bodyweight training programmes that do not require sharing weights and other workout equipment. The programmes are also interestingly named; consider, for instance, Quarontoned and Safeboxing, which offer endurance, strength and cardio training, and can be practiced while following the social-distancing model.

According to Jamil Haider Rizvi, the owner of the place and a mixed martial arts trainer, The Dojo was originally supposed to accommodate up to 20 people and offer equipment-based programmes. However, in view of the pandemic, the facility was modified for safety purposes.

The Dojo was originally supposed to accommodate up to 20 people and offer equipment-based programmes. However, in view of the pandemic, the facility was modified for safety purposes.

The place now takes in a maximum of six people at a time, and requires them to strictly follow the protocols of hand sanitisation and social distancing. They are required to bring their own yoga/exercise mats, water bottles, towels and, of course, facemasks.

It is also the only gym in Lahore with a rooftop location, which ensures a great view of the city and fresh air at all times, especially since the place has no windows and no doors.

The place also provides a qualified team of trainers who offer both personal and group training. Aside from Rizvi, there is “Asjad [who] focuses on functional, sports specific training along with strength and mobility. Palvashae and Shireen, who have over three years of group fitness experience, specialise in muscular endurance training.” These trainers are also certified in injury rehabilitation and pain management.

Given the circumstances, a place such as The Dojo has set the trend for similar ventures to attract Lahoris tired of sitting at home but too scared to step out.