Send us a textWant to know how a gym thrives without leaning on hype or high-skill circus moves? We sit down with Michael Logue, founder of Athlete Gyms, to unpack how a people-first culture, clear programming, and genuine hospitality can outperform big ad spends in a crowded Dubai market. Michael traces his path from Manchester to Dubai, the early days coaching across multiple studios, and the leap to opening Athlete after building a loyal community that existed before the space did.We dig into what makes functional fitness actually functional: accessible movements, coached well, with progressions and regressions that meet you where you are. Michael breaks down their eight-week training cycles and testing that give both beginners and advanced athletes a shared framework without the ego traps. We tackle the shifting landscape from CrossFit to hybrid events like Hyrox, why some skills don’t serve most people, and how to keep training fun, safe, and purposeful. If you’ve ever felt wary of group classes, you’ll hear practical ways Athlete lowers the intimidation factor, from midweek intro-friendly sessions to coaches who prioritise names, cues, and first impressions.A highlight is the kids programme: building movement literacy, coordination, and resilience early so young people see effort as the superpower that levels the field. Michael shares why broad exposure to sports matters, how body awareness prevents the bad patterns many adults carry, and why gymnastics can be a brilliant foundation even if children later choose football, netball, or running. We also share plans for Dubai 30x30, including a free Topgolf takeover to welcome newcomers who might never step into a studio, and we spotlight the wider culture of collaboration in Dubai—run clubs, gyms, and communities growing the pie instead of poaching members.For coaches and founders eyeing Dubai, Michael’s advice is blunt and useful: don’t send a CV and wait. Show up, meet people, and contribute until your presence speaks for you. If you value coaching that cares and community that lasts, this conversation will give you clear steps and fresh motivation. Enjoyed the episode? Subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a friend who needs a nudge to try functional fitness.

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