In 2018, OMR-based startup Fionis organised a fitness festival that brought gated communities in the region together in a spirit of friendly competition. The festival featured a host of sports and allied activities. The following year, they organised ‘Happy Feet Run’.

Both events sought to strengthen bonds among gated communities to build a fitness culture. Saravanan Kandan and S. Anu, co-founders of Fionis and residents of two gated communities on OMR, are back with their next big fitness event, this time covering a wider canvas spread across Chennai and for a cross-section of people.

Organised in association with Sathyabama University, Rotary Club and Federation of OMR Resident Associations, Fitness Fest 2025 is a community-wide mission to make fitness accessible, enjoyable and inclusive for all, says a press release.

More than 50 gated communities and 25 schools in Chennai will be taking part in a series of events scheduled for September.

“We have already started small events at gated communities and schools to build momentum for the big events happening in September,” says Anu.

A line-up of events

Children can participate in ‘Happy Feet Run’, a 5K family-friendly run inside a secure, traffic-free campus; and ‘Obstacle Run’, an adventure-themed physical challenge tailored for different age groups. Inflatable run, rock climbing, Parkour, calisthenics, gymnastics, karate, judo and Olympic-style weightlifting demonstrations are among the highlights. A ‘Special Kids Run’ is dedicated for children with special needs.

A social cause

A key component of this year’s edition pertains to building awareness about health and preventive care. A ‘Free CPR training for more than 100 volunteers to raise emergency response awareness’ will be conducted. ‘Support for Olympic Aspirants’ is another social gesture where children from humble backgrounds, training for international competitions, will be given exposure and support.

In the press note, the organisers pointed out Fitness Fest is a movement to inspire families to make fitness part of their lifestyle by making it fun and engaging for children and families.

The finale on September 21 will have music, food, community stalls and competitions.

For details, visit fitnessfestindia.com or call 8807651175