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MMA star to expand Lion's Den Gym in London
Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) star Khalid Ismail has confirmed plans to expand his Lion's Den Gym (LDG) in Chadwell Heath, London.
The gym, one of two owned by the London fighter, is currently being turned into the largest centre for Martial Arts in London.
The expanded gym will feature 15,000sq ft (1,393sq m) of training space, including specialist strength and training facilities alongside the brand new octagon boxing ring.
To be completed in September 2012, the world class combat and matting facilities will be complemented by three separate studio spaces, spinning suit, and 'Women Only Zone'.
The gym's current cardio space is also due to be extended and members will be able to recharge after a hard work out in the new LDG café.
Ismail hopes to welcome new members from September when the expansion is due for completion, opening the world of MMA to a host of new participants.
As well as carving a career in the world of MMA, most recently competing in the UCMMA, Khalid has channeled his passion for martial arts and fitness into his LDG enterprise since 2006, when the Chadwell Heath gym was first opened.
Four years later Ismail expanded his empire opening the Romford branch, funded through reinvesting capital following the success of LDG's first site.
Under a ten-year plan for the business, he is now looking to consolidate and grow existing facilities at a rate that will enable further investment in new branches.
Speaking to Health Club Management, Ismail said: "There is definitely a call for more centres like ours to be opened in and around London. The riots were about people being drawn into an atmosphere and a way of thinking which is destructive.
"Martial Arts and training teaches self-sacrifice, discipline, self-respect, honour, and can give someone a real sense of achievement. I know how valuable having somewhere like our centres is to go. Not just for youngsters, but for everyone."