Royal Fitness Club marks five years of transforming women’s lives 

What began as an online fitness initiative during the COVID-19 pandemic has evolved into an international wellness community empowering women across Jamaica and overseas through accountability, discipline and lifestyle change. Royal Fitness Club (RFC), founded in 2021 by fitness trainer Adiel Thomas, emerged at a time when gyms worldwide had shuttered, routines were disrupted, and many people found themselves struggling to maintain their physical and mental wellness while confined at home.

“Gyms were closed, movement became limited, and many were struggling with their health and confidence during that period, so I saw an opportunity to create a space where women could still prioritise their wellness from home,” Thomas said of launching the online fitness platform during the pandemic.

From its inception, Royal Fitness Club intentionally centred women, a demographic Thomas believed often felt overlooked or uncomfortable in traditional fitness environments.

“It’s the niche I chose,” he explained. “Many women wanted to get fit but often felt intimidated, judged, or unsupported in traditional fitness spaces. I wanted to create an environment where women felt comfortable, encouraged, and empowered.”

The club’s fully online format also created flexibility for women balancing careers, motherhood, and demanding schedules, eliminating many of the challenges associated with physically attending a gym.

“I have so many friends that find it really hard to go to the gym because they are super busy. They have kids, some are single moms,” Thomas said. “RFC provides a space where you can work out with your kids literally right there with you. No excuses about traffic, rain, or the gym being crowded.”

Today, members participate in live workouts five days a week from Sunday to Thursday, with classes offered at 5 a.m., 7 p.m., and 8 p.m. Alongside exercise sessions, the programme incorporates nutrition guidance, accountability check-ins, and ongoing support among members.

“All journeys begin with understanding the client’s goals, current lifestyle, and fitness level,” Thomas explained. “From the start, there is workout accountability and nutrition guidance. You literally have to start sending me your meals.”

Over the past five years, the club has steadily expanded beyond Jamaica’s borders, building an international client base across the United States, Canada, the Cayman Islands, Turks and Caicos, England, Egypt, and Pakistan. Thomas estimates that approximately half of RFC’s members now reside overseas.

“It’s amazing, even to me, how much fat you can burn and weight you can lose right in your living room or bedroom,” he said.

While the physical transformations have been significant, Thomas believes the emotional and mental growth experienced by members has been even more rewarding.

“The most rewarding part is seeing women become more confident and happier within themselves,” he said. “Sometimes the transformation mentally and emotionally is even greater than the physical transformation.”

Among those impacted is Canada-based client Locksan West-Russell, who credited RFC with helping her lose weight while reshaping her confidence and relationship with food.

“When I started your workout sessions back in January, I had no idea how much of an impact they would have on my body and my life,” she shared. “I started at 182 pounds, and now I’m at 164 before summer has even begun. I don’t stress eat anymore, and I actually look forward to the sessions.”

As the club continues to grow, Thomas said innovation remains key to keeping the online experience engaging. He plans to expand RFC through partnerships, wellness initiatives, participation in 5Ks, and new workout programmes designed to challenge members while strengthening the club’s international presence.

The club’s five-year journey was recently celebrated with an intimate anniversary dinner held on Saturday, May 2, where 22 women gathered to celebrate the growth of Royal Fitness Club and the community it has built over the years.

The evening featured music by DJ Philo, décor by Cattaleya Decor, catering by Gourmet by Andre, and interactive activities hosted by resident MC and RFC member Felicia Maragh. Guests were also recognised during an awards ceremony celebrating personal milestones and transformations achieved throughout the year.

Serving as guest speaker for the celebration was Oberlene Smith-Whyte, whom Thomas described as someone who represents “discipline, excellence, resilience, and inspiration” — values he believes continue to define Royal Fitness Club five years later.