In talks With Sheema Sultan Founder And Co-Owner Of CORE Gym

In conversation with Sheema Sultan, founder and co-owner of CORE gym.In this exclusive session with Runway Pakistan Ms. Sultan highlights the aspects of health and fitness in Pakistan and talks us through her journey; from holding a degree in communication and design to becoming an entrepreneur and fitness instructor at one of the most renowned gyms in Pakistan.

 What is your driving force towards kick starting off CORE gym? 

My driving force behind Core was the lack of a great gym space in this city. I’m very passionate about exercise and fitness myself. It started off as a personal journey as everyone at one age struggles with weight and body changes. I too faced such an issue due to which I gained a lot of weight; I started exercising because of it. but once I began exercising I discovered that It was something I really looked forward to. I wanted to create a local brand which could rival any international gym in terms of ambiance, service and trainings. A gym should feel like a sanctuary, a home away from home; comfortable and welcoming.

Would you rather be feared or respected?

I would definitely prefer to be respected for my skills and work ethics. In the customer service industry, one needs to be approachable and I want my clients to feel comfortable with me, so I do not want to be feared!

What are your passions besides fitness?

Travel , food and photography !

From having a degree in communication design to being a fitness instructor how has this journey been like so far?

There are very few people, who love what they do I believe I’m one of them. I had a degree in communication design, there were some elements I liked and some I didn’t. Exercise and maintaining a healthy lifestyle was something I really enjoyed doing. I love coming to work, I am a certified instructor myself so I teach fitness classes as well and is something I am truly passionate about. All in all, my journey has been one of self-discovery.

A quote which defines who you are?

Lift heavy , love hard and dream big . There is no in-between.

An experience which has molded you into who you are today?

I have had my share of learning experiences and realized that one needs to stand up for themselves and do what feels right for them. Whatever I have accomplished and whoever I have become is because I have stayed true to myself. I have never tried to be somebody else and walked away from situations which were not meant for me.

 What is your take on the current scenario regarding fitness and health in Pakistan?

We’re a very new and small market it’s in infancy right now. We’re getting into it but a lot of work is still required. People are more focused on getting a quick fix and weight-loss. It’s a lifestyle which many people don’t realize but are slowly starting to expand their mindset.

 What are the values which CORE is built around?

Our CORE values are based on 5 words :

1. Passion

2 Integrity

3. Professionalism

4 . Quality

5. Respect

These values and ideologies lie at the heart of CORE and truly form its essence