The Cuban influencer Kendry Porbén (@kendryporben) continues to captivate his audience by sharing a fresh video exploring what he describes as "Cuba's most affordable gym."
Situated in the Mañana neighborhood of the Guanabacoa municipality in Havana, this gym charges a mere 400 Cuban pesos per month. In today's economy, marked by inflation and economic turmoil, such a fee is practically tokenistic.
Porbén's video provides a glimpse into the gym's facilities, which, despite their simplicity, are notable for the owner's imaginative and resourceful approach. "I've never seen equipment like this before," Porbén admitted while trying out some of the unique apparatuses.
What sets this gym apart is the fact that many of the machines have been handcrafted by the owner and instructor himself. Using recycled materials, he has managed to create a functional space where numerous local youths train.
Set outdoors beneath a zinc roof, the gym features homemade press machines, benches, bars, and weights, many of which are assembled from reclaimed metal parts.
The video has inspired admiration among viewers, who praise the ingenuity of Cubans in staying active and finding solutions in the face of scarcity. "Definitely, the best gym in Havana," one follower remarked.
Kendry Porbén has gained recognition on platforms like Instagram and TikTok for his tours of various gyms in Cuba's capital, highlighting the diversity, conditions, and dedication of local trainers and athletes.
His content blends humor, social critique, and the promotion of physical fitness as an act of resilience against the everyday challenges in Cuba.
Cuba's Gyms and Economic Challenges
Why is the gym's monthly fee considered symbolic?
The fee of 400 Cuban pesos is considered symbolic due to the current inflation and economic crisis in Cuba, making such a low cost almost unheard of.
How does the gym's owner manage to provide equipment?
The gym's owner constructs equipment by hand using recycled materials, showcasing creativity and resourcefulness in the face of limited resources.