Patricio Gómez and the Story of Chong Ma
How It All Began
Patricio Gómez finished his time in the army and, because the pay was low, decided to try something else. He was young, loved sports, and opened a small gym in 1976. He came from Castilla‑La Mancha and has now spent more than 55 years working in fitness centres.
The Early Gym: Martial Arts and Simple Equipment
When Chong Ma first opened, Patricio had only about 200 000 pesetas (roughly 1 200 euros today). The gym was on San Joaquín Street and had three rooms: one for taekwondo, one for women’s gymnastics, and a tiny weights area. Most people came for martial arts, inspired by movies of the time. Body‑building and “fitness fashion” were not yet popular.
How Training Has Changed
Back then, training was about learning techniques, stretching, and staying focused. Today, many more people exercise, and the idea of fitness has become mainstream. Patricio notes that people now pay more attention to how their bodies look and feel, and they want to stay active as they get older.
Shifting Goals and Customers
In the past, customers trained mainly to master a martial art. Now, many come simply to feel good, improve their health, and keep their bodies working well. Patricio says that two or three sessions a week are enough to feel the benefits, and doing more is even better.
Social Media Influence
Social media bombards people with images of perfect bodies and the latest workout trends. Patricio sees that many teens start training because of what they see online, but they often quit after a short burst of enthusiasm. He believes real progress comes from genuine interest and regular practice, not just from following a trend.
Life on an Island
Mallorca receives new trends faster than many mainland provinces. Because the island is international, fresh ideas in fitness arrive early, and local gyms have to adapt quickly.
Keeping the Passion Alive
Patricio still puts on his kimono to teach and treats his work like a vocation. He compares it to being a doctor or a journalist—if you love what you do, you keep going. Even after decades, he enjoys seeing his students improve and achieve their goals.
Achievements and Pride
Through taekwondo at Chong Ma, Patricio has coached regional, national, and international champions, including Olympic medalists. Watching a student reach a high level makes him proud and shows that good guidance leads to real success.
What Teens Look For Today
When teenagers come to Chong Ma for martial arts, they often want to feel stronger, more confident, and better able to handle stress. They also appreciate the supportive atmosphere and the chance to train alongside friends.
Family Future?
Patricio’s four children have moved to different parts of Europe and chosen other careers. One of them was invited to take over the gym, but he decided the schedule—early mornings to late nights—was too demanding for his own life plans.
Competing with Big Chains
Large gym chains now have thousands of members and lots of equipment. Patricio stays competitive by offering a family‑like vibe, personal attention, and a welcoming space for kids and adults alike. He believes that a personal touch can beat sheer size.
Conclusion
Patricio Gómez’s journey mirrors the evolution of fitness in Mallorca—from a modest martial‑arts studio to a modern centre that adapts to new trends while keeping its core values. His story shows that passion, consistency, and a genuine connection with members can keep a gym thriving for generations, even amid big‑box competition.
Source
Images Credit: mallorcaglobalmag.es