New women-only gym opens in Tenerife
The launch of EMPOWER, a new gym exclusively for women, has triggered mixed reactions on social media, with some welcoming the idea as necessary while others question whether it reinforces division.
EMPOWER in Santa Cruz de Tenerife markets itself as “our safe place,” offering training spaces in pink tones designed to create an environment free from judgment or uncomfortable stares. The monthly fee is €45.90, with free registration as part of its launch offer, and the facilities include equipment for both strength and cardio training, strictly for women members only.
Supporters argue that such a space addresses a real need, pointing out that some women still feel uncomfortable in mixed gyms due to unwanted attention or comments. Promotional videos from EMPOWER highlight this message, with the slogan: “Here you can train without feeling watched, without feeling judged.” On TikTok, one user commented enthusiastically: “From 1 to 10, I need this 1000.”
However, not everyone agrees. Critics argue that women-only gyms risk sending out a negative message about traditional fitness centres. “They’re assuming that other gyms are unsafe, which I think is a dangerous and toxic message,” one commenter wrote.
The concept itself is not new, with women-only gyms already popular in cities around the world. Supporters view them as a step toward empowerment and freedom, while opponents believe they deepen the divide between men and women rather than encouraging safe, inclusive mixed spaces.
For now, EMPOWER has quickly become a talking point across Tenerife, reigniting a broader question: is it better to create exclusive spaces for women, or should efforts focus on ensuring that all gyms, mixed or otherwise, are equally safe and welcoming for everyone?
Share:
