Philadelphia has always remained a melting pot for ethnic diversity and inclusiveness, and home to several businesses that have continued to contribute to the economy of the city. Amongst many of these businesses within the city are Black-Owned Gyms and Wellness studios offering the communities in Philadelphia access to a healthy lifestyle.

As many people seek to find a work-family-lifestyle balance, there has been a rising interest in seeking information on activities that address the necessities to achieve a healthy lifestyle. Many gyms and fitness centers have leveraged this public need and gone ahead to offer programs that encourage physical activities such as fitness exercises, eating right, and ways to pursue an overall healthy lifestyle.

Among the many gyms and fitness offering these activities in Philadelphia are the Black-owned gyms that continue to provide

a conducive environment where many irrespective of ethnic affiliation can pursue and achieve their fitness goals.

Photo by Push Universal Training Studio | Yelp

One such gym center is Push Universal Training founded by Troy Howard and Justin Taylor. Located around the Northern Liberties section of Philadelphia, Push Universal is a gym center that offers personal training programs for individuals and families as well as classes designed to cater to the fitness requirements of their patrons. Recognized for offering one of the best boot camp programs in Philadelphia, Push Universal’s price competitiveness is attractive and pocket-friendly.

Philadelphia has always had a rich boxing history with the likes of Dwight Muhammad Qawi, Meldrick Taylor, Jack O’Brien, Joe Frazier, and a host of others with historical ties to the city. As a result of the influence of many of these previous professional fighters, several Black fitness boxing gyms have continued to blossom all over the city.

Photo from Maleek Jackson Fitness

If you are looking for a place to let off steam and engage in an exhilarating boxing session, then Maleek Jackson Fitness Boxing Gym is the right place to visit. They offer training programs for newbies who are interested in learning how to box as workout sessions with professional boxing instructors. The boxing gym also provides after-school training programs for kids between the ages of 7-17 years along with other unique programs tailored for its clients.

Photo from Sankofa Yoga

Also prominent in Philadelphia are Black-owned wellness centers that are focused on self-care and improving the mental health of the Philadelphia communities. One such center is Sankofa Wellness Yoga and Wellness Center Studio which is located in the North of Philadelphia. Founded by Marshay Herder, the studio runs a yoga and wellness program that exposes patrons to various yoga styles, meditation sessions, and seminars that promote a healthy lifestyle.

Photo from Freedom Apothecary

Another such wellness center is the Freedom Apothecary. Founded by Morrisa Jenkins and Bonkosi Horn, the center offers its patrons a wide array of natural, non-toxic products that help improve the physical, emotional, and mental well-being of its patrons. With workshops, seminars, and programs designed to improve self-care, the Freedom Apothecary is one center focused on offering an all-inclusive wellness experience for the Philadelphia community.

Okechukwu Nzeribe works with the Onitsha Chamber of Commerce, in Anambra State, Nigeria, and loves unveiling the richness of African cultures. okechukwu.oniccima@gmail.com