High Octane Fitness last week (16) celebrated the grand opening of its latest space, Evolution by High Octane, situated on the 31st Floor of Mireka Tower, Havelock City. In an exclusive interview with High Octane Fitness Co-Founder Ashanthi Weerasinghe, The Sunday Morning Brunch was given insight into the features of this cutting-edge fitness space.
Beyond its remarkable location offering a breathtaking 360-degree panorama of the Indian Ocean and the Colombo City skyline, the facility sets itself apart by introducing unparalleled state-of-the-art amenities unprecedented in Sri Lanka.
Ashanthi proudly emphasised: “It stands as the largest gym in Sri Lanka, boasting an impressive 160 workstations.” She further highlighted the exceptional calibre of instructors, all of whom are national-level athletes, elevating High Octane’s services to an unprecedented level within the fitness industry.
Ashanthi also expressed the inclusive nature of the newly-inaugurated Evolution by High Octane, highlighting its public accessibility. The gym extends its welcome from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m., seven days a week, catering to the diverse schedules of fitness enthusiasts.
Ashanthi pointed out the distinct advantage offered by the gym: “You get the full package of diet, nutrition, and exercise guide – all you need to achieve your goals. There is a cardio section, weight training, and saunas and cold plunges.” This comprehensive approach ensures that members receive holistic support, setting High Octane apart from conventional fitness establishments.
Discussing the strategic positioning of their new branch, Ashanthi drew attention to the contrast with their existing outlet on Dutugemunu Street, Kohuwela, which is a mere five minutes away. The new space is strategically tailored for the ‘corporate client’ and individuals with time constraints.
Ashanthi elaborated: “You can come here and do many things because the mall is close by. Where you park, you have the largest Cargills, salons, a food studio offering healthy meals, and the laundromat – all within the premises. Convenience is key here, providing our members with a seamless and efficient fitness experience.”
Addressing contemporary fitness trends, Ashanthi acknowledged the common pitfall of individuals giving up on gyms due to a lack of guidance. High Octane’s innovative approach includes personalised support through membership benefits.
Ashanthi elaborated: “Here at High Octane, with your membership, you are offered sessions. If you buy an annual membership, you receive 10 sessions with a personal trainer. It is proven that your results are three times faster with this dedicated support, providing daily motivation and engaging in 60 minutes of one-on-one training – an impactful difference-maker in achieving your fitness goals.”
Duminda Sampath, also known as Dumi, a seasoned trainer at High Octane Fitness, shared his thoughts on the new Evolution by High Octane. Drawing from his extensive experience, including a stint in Oman, Dumi emphasised on the quality of equipment at the new gym, asserting: “I used to work in Oman, but here there’s equipment that we didn’t even see internationally.”
Having dedicated six years to High Octane, Dumi highlighted the truly state-of-the-art facilities accessible at the new space. “This is the largest gym in Sri Lanka as we stand,” he said, highlighting the significance of this fitness hub in the local landscape. Dumi encouraged individuals to join, noting the ease and effectiveness in reaching fitness goals: “I urge people to join because I can guarantee that going toward your target this way will be much easier.”
High Octane Fitness Head of Sales and Marketing Rajitha Witharana shed light on the luxurious yet accessible services offered at the new space: “High Octane is a brand in itself, and our goal here is impeccable customer service – not only through equipment and personal training, but also through providing for recovery, group classes, nutrition plans, and a variety of training modalities. We can build you up to reach your health and fitness goals and help anyone who needs to reach the level of an elite athlete. We have the training technology and the advanced equipment you need.”
Rajitha drew a clear distinction between this new facility and the previous gym on Dutugemunu Street, describing the latter as a warehouse concept – a hardcore gym. In contrast, the new space adopts a more luxurious approach, catering specifically to corporate clients and Sri Lankans seeking an elevated fitness experience. Rajitha highlighted the privacy offered by the new location and the added benefit of hotel-like services, making it an ideal setting for a comprehensive workout. This approach aligns with High Octane’s commitment to providing a holistic and elevated fitness experience for a diverse clientele.
Content creator and patron of High Octane Sandalie Kulathunga expressed her anticipation and satisfaction with the new Evolution by High Octane. Having been a regular at the Dutugemunu Street facility for nearly one-and-a-half years, Sandalie described the unveiling of the new space as a long-awaited development that surpassed expectations.
She said: “I never thought we could have a gym of this standard in Sri Lanka. The equipment looks really great, and I am very excited to work out here.” Sandalie’s enthusiasm underscores the positive reception from dedicated patrons of High Octane.
On a closing note, Co-Founder Ashanthi reaffirmed the enduring spirit of High Octane Fitness encapsulated in the tagline ‘Stronger Than Yesterday’. This sentiment extends beyond individual fitness goals to resonate with the collective strength of the nation. Evolution by High Octane embodies this ethos and stands as a testament to continuous progress and resilience.