Early Life: Building a Foundation for Fitness
Growing up in the 1980s, Amal Baattiah’s childhood was characterized by physical activity and outdoor play. Without the distractions of modern technology, her days were filled with cycling, running, and gymnastics. These experiences instilled in her a deep love for movement and taught her discipline and perseverance—qualities that would later become the cornerstone of her professional ethos.
A Transformative Journey: Discovering CrossFit
In 2013, as a single mother of two and an investment manager, Amal found herself grappling with stress and seeking change. This quest led her to discover CrossFit, a fitness regimen that was virtually unknown in Saudi Arabia at the time, especially among women. Undeterred by the lack of proper gyms or training facilities, Amal embarked on a personal fitness journey, embracing the road less traveled.
Establishing AB Fitness: Empowering Women Through Strength
Amal’s dedication culminated in the founding of AB Fitness, a boutique gym in Jeddah specializing in functional and strength training. Her vision was clear: to create a fit community, promote longevity, and enhance the quality of life through dynamic and customized training plans suitable for all fitness levels. AB Fitness has since become a sanctuary for women, offering a variety of classes such as Strength & Conditioning, Glutes Boost & Core Power, and Pilates, all designed to build strength, flexibility, and confidence.
Leadership in the Saudi Wrestling Federation
Amal’s influence extends beyond her gym. She made history by becoming the first female member of the Saudi Arabian Wrestling Federation’s executive board. This milestone reflects the country’s progressive strides in promoting gender equality in sports and underscores Amal’s commitment to creating a positive impact in the fitness community. Her role involves fostering the development of women’s wrestling and inspiring young women to pursue their goals with determination.
Balancing Roles: Motherhood and Mentorship
Among her proudest achievements, Amal counts raising two sons who share her passion for fitness. Balancing motherhood with entrepreneurship, she exemplifies the belief that with discipline and hard work, one can make time for what truly matters. Her journey serves as a testament to the power of embracing opportunities and taking risks.
A Vision for the Future: Inspiring a Generation
Amal’s mission is to build a strong, confident generation of women. Through AB Fitness and her leadership roles, she continues to inspire women to embrace strength training, improve their quality of life, and pursue their aspirations fearlessly. Her story is a beacon of empowerment, illustrating that with determination and resilience, transformative change is within reach. Do follow her on Instagram.
