Best Gyms in Kota Kinabalu

The fitness scene in KK has exploded over the past few years. There are now some genuinely good options whether you’re into heavy lifting, group classes, or just want a treadmill and cold air conditioning. Here’s my honest take on the best gyms in Kota Kinabalu based on actual experience training here.

1. Celebrity Fitness

Celebrity Fitness at Suria Sabah is the most popular gym in the city centre. Equipment is well-maintained, the classes are solid, and being inside Suria mall means you can grab a meal right after. Monthly membership runs around RM150-200. It gets crowded during peak hours (6-8pm) but it’s manageable and the location is unbeatable.

Best for: Convenience, group classes, beginners. Price: ~RM150-200/month

2. True Fitness

True Fitness is a step up in terms of facilities. The equipment selection is wider, group classes are excellent, and they have a pool at some locations. Slightly pricier than Celebrity Fitness but if you’re serious about training and want more variety, it’s worth the extra ringgit. The trainers here are generally more knowledgeable too.

Best for: Serious fitness enthusiasts, variety seekers. Price: ~RM200-250/month

3. Local Independent Gyms

Don’t sleep on the smaller independent gyms around KK. There are solid no-frills weight rooms in Luyang, Likas, and around Karamunsing that charge RM50-80 a month and have serious free weight sections. The vibe is more hardcore, the community is tight-knit, and you won’t be waiting for equipment. If you know what you’re doing, these are often the better choice.

Best for: Serious lifters, budget-conscious. Price: RM50-80/month

My Recommendation

If you want convenience and classes, go Celebrity Fitness or True Fitness. If you’re a serious lifter on a budget, find one of the local independent gyms. KK’s fitness scene is genuinely good right now and getting better every year.