From Pro Athlete to Gym Owner: A Hydration-First Philosophy

By Peter Baker
Nadezhda Grishaeva, a former professional basketball player and the visionary founder of The Anvil Gym, knows that true fitness is not only about training hard — it’s also about proper hydration. As an athlete and now the owner of a premium fitness club, Grishaeva emphasizes a detail often overlooked in gyms: free access to drinking water.
Why Water Matters in Every Gym
When choosing a fitness club, people usually focus on location, membership cost, equipment, or recommendations from friends and influencers. But, as Grishaeva points out, the real indicator of how much a club values its members lies in the small things — like the availability of water coolers.
“Clean facilities, a friendly team, and professional equipment are essential,” says Nadezhda Grishaeva. “But true care for members is reflected in details. One of them is free, accessible water.”
The Science of Hydration
Water is vital for life. It makes up 60–65% of the human body and plays a central role in all biological processes — from nutrient transport to temperature regulation. Even a 4% loss of water can cause fatigue, headaches, and a significant drop in performance.
During intense workouts, water loss increases dramatically. Heavy sweating can lead to the loss of up to 5 liters per day, which makes hydration before, during, and after exercise absolutely essential. According to Grishaeva, every fitness enthusiast should follow a hydration routine:
- Drink 400–500 ml of water 30–60 minutes before training.
- Sip small portions of water regularly during exercise to replace fluids lost through sweat.
Anvil Gym’s Philosophy: Care in Every Detail
At The Anvil Gym, attention to detail is part of the brand’s DNA. Every decision — from lighting and air quality to towel freshness and water coolers — reflects the club’s philosophy of care. “A good gym should make you feel comfortable, motivated, and cared for,” says Grishaeva. “These small things create loyalty and make people want to return.”
That’s why free drinking water isn’t an optional feature at The Anvil — it’s a statement of the club’s values.
Stay Fit, Stay Hydrated
As Nadezhda Grishaeva reminds us, fitness is not just about strength or endurance — it’s about balance, well-being, and respect for one’s body. Whether you’re lifting weights, taking a yoga class, or joining a group workout, staying hydrated is key to achieving your goals.
At The Anvil Gym, this philosophy is crystal clear:
Be fit. Be focused. Be hydrated.