Training for Longevity

FitLife Paarl is the brainchild of Ivar Hayward, who set out to build more than just a gym. His vision was to create a space where fitness is part of everyday life, creating a community around longevity and wellbeing.

To realise his vision, he approached Gym Concepts. Our team provided a white-glove solution, working alongside Ivar on a daily basis – from ideation right through to launch. We advised on layout and functionality, sourced and shipped gym equipment, managed the install, and still provide ongoing support.

Beyond training spaces, FitLife is designed to feel welcoming. The reception doubles as a boutique showcasing Reebok apparel, an offering made possible through Gym Concepts’ long-standing affiliation with the brand. Members can relax in the coffee shop – celebrated for the best brew in Paarl – complete with a fireplace and fast Wi-Fi. From the leather upholstered reception desk to the high-quality finishes in the bathrooms, one might feel like you’ve stepped into a boutique hotel, rather than a gym.

A dedicated children’s play area, enclosed with glass walls, adds to the family-friendly atmosphere, making it easier for parents to stay consistent in their training.

Inclusive Fitness

FitLife Paarl has been carefully zoned and equipped to balance performance, conditioning, and endurance. Every training discipline has been considered, with world-class brands integrated seamlessly throughout the facility:

Cardio & Circuit Training
A open, light-filled zone kitted with multiple SportsArt cardio pieces – from treadmills to ellipticals, steppers and recumbent bikes, plus Concept2 Rowers and BikeErgs. With at least two of each machine, even peak training hours feel uncrowded.

Running along one side is a full BenchMark Performance Line selectorised circuit, customised with tan leather upholstery to match FitLife’s refined aesthetic.

Free Weights
This section is where athletes come to build power and refine strength — the place to get your pump on and shape your guns. Kitted with AlphaState fixed barbells and a full set of AlphaState round PU dumbbells, it provides everything needed for progressive training.

Classic strength stations, also from BenchMark, include an incline bench press, Smith machine and a preacher curl – to name but a few – are complemented by a cable crossover for multi-plane movement. This ensures a comprehensive lineup, creating a focused environment for upper-body conditioning.

Functional & Group Training

The open training floor is designed for variety and volume. Large windows flood the space with light, while plyo boxes, wall-mounted pull-up bars, gym rings, and Concept2 rowers support a full schedule of CrossFit, Hyrox, and Fit45 classes. A dedicated storage system keeps accessories like kettlebells, balls, dumbbells, mats, and resistance bands close at hand, giving coaches plenty of options to scale or intensify workouts without cluttering the space.

Strength & CrossFit Section
Along the back wall, a fully equipped strength zone reflects Ivar’s long-standing connection with Gym Concepts. Barbells, rigs, and weight plates — some dating back to his very first order with us more than a decade ago — sit alongside new AlphaState benches, cages, and racks, creating a space that balances heritage with the latest equipment. Peg boards, timers, chalk bags, and a display of CrossFit t-shirts complete the atmosphere, making even the most die-hard CrossFitter feel right at home.

Sled Track & Conditioning Zone
Running through the centre of the gym, the sled track brings Hyrox-style training to life. The astro turf lanes, equipped with sleds and pulling ropes, allow for sprints, pushes, and drags that develop strength and endurance in equal measure. A line of hurricane air bikes and Concept2 SkiErgs join up with the CrossFit section, while climbing ropes and wooden rings hang suspended from the warehouse ceiling.

Powerlifting Corner
A niche collection of Olympic and powerlifting equipment, not often seen in commercial facilities, is a nod to Ivar’s passion for the sport. 

👉 Like what you see? Get in touch to discuss your project!

From sourcing to installation, we’ll customise a solution that best fits your needs, and your budget.

Follow FitLife Paarl on Instagram to see this facility in action!