As shared bikes have become more and more popular and can be seen everywhere in Wuhan, capital of central China’s Hubei province, similar models have been applied to other fields, such as umbrellas, power banks, kitchens and car rentals. 

Shared fitness rooms now also operate under this model and made their debut in Wuhan East Lake High-tech Development Zone (Optics Valley of China) on Jan 13.

The Wanba gym capsule, a 7.5-square-meter room, can hold up to three people, and is equipped with a treadmill, set of dumbbells, an air conditioner, sound boxes and a television. Users can access the gym by scanning a QR code. The cost is 0.2 yuan (3 cents) per minute. 

“The shared capsules release people from traveling extra miles to the gym and signing up for memberships that they may never use,” said Fu Hao, founder and CEO of Wanba shared gyms.

Nearly 300 Wanba shared gyms have opened in several cities, including Beijing, Shanghai and Shenzhen. They are located in residential areas and office buildings, making a workout affordable and convenient.

A Wanba shared gym makes its debut in Optics Valley of China, central China’s Hubei province, on Jan 13. [Photo provided to China Daily]

Two women access a Wanba gym capsule through their mobile phones in Optics Valley of China, central China’s Hubei province, on Jan 13. [Photo provided to China Daily]

Several onlookers stand beside a Wanba gym capsule in Optics Valley of China, central China’s Hubei province, on Jan 13. [Photo provided to China Daily]