Hi there, this is Andrew, MDC’s tech guy. Starting today I’ll be doing a series of blog posts on the best places to do stuff in Davao City. Be it eating, having fun, taking pictures or hanging out with friends, I’m gonna give you the best that Davao has to offer. I’m kicking off this series with one of my favorite pastimes — working out. Sharing with you my list of best gyms in Davao City.

I work out a lot. I’ve tried several gyms already, but only a few stand out.

Here they are:

#3 Smashville

First, let us start with number 3 on my list. You may find Smashville’s location quite odd. When you enter the building, a flurry of Chinese immigrants are busy selling their wares to bargain hunters. The gym is fortunately on the second floor, where it’s more quiet and conducive to exercising.

You’ll find out why it’s called Smashville upon seeing the eight badminton courts near the lobby. The courts are usually full on Wednesdays and the weekends.

The cardio area is quite spacious, replete of treadmills of different sorts and sizes, even a mini-theater that helps you burn calories without minding the time. The workout machines are on a higher floor.

Going up the stairs itself is an exercise. Once you’re up, you can’t help but notice how big the place is. There’s ample space for doing stretches, abdominal exercises and aerobics. It isn’t crammed like other gyms in the city.

Finally, the instructor named Eric is very helpful and courteous. The downside to Smashville is its location.

It’s on Magsaysay Avenue, not the most accessible address there is. Parking is a chore. Sometimes I’d have to do 3-4 rounds before I can park my car. A few occasions I’m forced to go to another gym out of frustration. But if you take public transportation, that wouldn’t be a problem. Smashville remains to be one of the most popular gyms in Davao City.

Pros: Ridiculously spacious. Free Internet access. Friendly staff. Cheap at about P500/month.