The Gym Love Triangle: Fitness, Fashion, and Flirtation in Lagos
In the age of fitness influencers, athleisure fashion, and Instagram-worthy workouts, Nigeria’s gym culture is booming. But beneath the sculpted abs and protein shakes lies a more complicated narrative: the gym as a new social playground—and sometimes, a romantic battleground.
From Ikeja to Festac and down to the bustling gyms in Ajah, what was once a space solely for sweat and stamina has evolved into something of a social experiment.
“People are using gyms to hook up,” says Folarin Adekoya, a regular gym-goer in Ikeja. “Some women come in wearing provocative outfits, and it’s not just distracting—it raises questions about their intentions.”
While the body goals are still a priority for many, others are raising eyebrows—and smartphones—as selfies, flirtation, and full-blown relationships begin to rival reps and routines.
“I Came to Lift, Not to Love”
Jason Onwuka, who trains regularly in Festac, says he’s seen it all.
“You have people who are here more for the vibe than the workouts. They spend more time talking and laughing than lifting weights,” he told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN).
He admits, however, that as society grows more individualistic, gyms have emerged as safe, neutral grounds for forming new connections.
“People are lonely. The gym is now a space to find friends, romance, and a sense of belonging,” he said. “But at the end of the day, it’s on you to stay focused.”
“Indecent Dressing Could Get Girls Banned” – Teddy A Warns
The debate recently went viral when Teddy A, a former Big Brother Naija star, posted a video lamenting what he called “indecent dressing at the gym.”
“We don’t want them to start banning girls from gyms because of indecent dressing,” he said in a video that triggered a flurry of reactions online.
While some praised his candour, others blasted his remarks as misogynistic and controlling, igniting fresh debates over dress codes, freedom of expression, and the sexual politics of the gym floor.
Fitness Centre Managers Respond
A gym manager in Ajah, who requested anonymity, told NAN that they’ve had to lay down the law to maintain order and respect.
“We’ve introduced dress guidelines and behaviour protocols. Still, people come to mingle, and as long as no one’s workout is disrupted, we don’t interfere,” he said.
He admitted that while some gym-goers blur the lines, many—especially professional women—come solely for fitness.
“They wear functional gear. Not everyone’s here for attention,” he added.
A Culture in Transition
As Nigeria’s middle class expands and wellness trends grow, gyms are no longer just places to burn calories—they’re becoming microcosms of urban life, where health, identity, and social dynamics all intersect.
But the question remains: Are gyms still sacred spaces for self-improvement—or just another scene for subtle seduction?
For now, the battle between body goals and “boo goals” continues to play out between the dumbbells and the dance bikes, one rep—and one DM—at a time.