Through Netaji Gym, Sudalai Muthu offers an affordable, trust-based workout space and free training to youngsters who cannot afford expensive gym memberships.
1 / 8 Sudalai Muthu, a 33-year-old daily-wage construction worker from Keelanatham village near Tirunelveli, started Netaji Gym with his own efforts.
(Image: Special Arrangement/S Santhanakumar)2 / 8 Unlike many commercial gyms, Netaji Gym does not focus on making profits.
(Image: Special Arrangement/S Santhanakumar)ADVERTISEMENT3 / 8 Netaji Gym provides free fitness training to poor students and young athletes.
(Image: Special Arrangement/S Santhanakumar)
Last Updated: August 14, 2026, 20:30 IST
A 33-year-old daily-wage construction worker from a village near Tirunelveli is proving that a gym can be about much more than fitness. Through Netaji Gym, Sudalai Muthu offers an affordable, trust-based workout space and free training to youngsters who cannot afford expensive gym memberships.
1 / 8 Sudalai Muthu, a 33-year-old daily-wage construction worker from Keelanatham village near Tirunelveli, started Netaji Gym with his own efforts. His goal is simple: help rural youngsters stay physically fit and build healthier, more disciplined lives. (Image: Special Arrangement/S Santhanakumar)
2 / 8 Unlike many commercial gyms, Netaji Gym does not focus on making profits. Members are asked to contribute just Rs. 200 per month for maintenance, but the payment is not compulsory, making fitness accessible to youngsters from financially weaker families. (Image: Special Arrangement/S Santhanakumar)
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3 / 8 Netaji Gym provides free fitness training to poor students and young athletes. Special attention is given to youngsters preparing for government jobs, including police and armed forces recruitment, where physical fitness is an important part of selection. (Image: Special Arrangement/S Santhanakumar)
4 / 8 The gym operates around the clock through an unusual open-key system. The key is kept outside, allowing youngsters to enter whenever they want. After exercising, users simply lock the gym and return the key to its usual place. (Image: Special Arrangement/S Santhanakumar)
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5 / 8 The unique trust-based system has worked remarkably well. According to Sudalai Muthu, no gym equipment or other items have gone missing so far. The initiative demonstrates how community responsibility and mutual trust can help sustain a shared facility. (Image: Special Arrangement/S Santhanakumar)
6 / 8 Muthu wants Netaji Gym to provide more than exercise equipment. His larger aim is to encourage rural youngsters to follow a healthier lifestyle and stay away from harmful habits such as smoking and alcohol while focusing on their goals. (Image: Special Arrangement/S Santhanakumar)
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7 / 8 The gym has become a training ground for several aspiring athletes. Some youngsters who trained there have reportedly won medals at state-level competitions, showing how access to basic fitness facilities can help rural talent develop and compete. (Image: Special Arrangement/S Santhanakumar)
