True Fitness made its foot print in Malaysia in year 2005, slightly later than all the established fitness centers. However, it has since picked up the pace with the huge potential being the strongest among them. In this article, let’s look at True Fitness and its founder, Patrick Wee.
Patrick is the youngest in his family, graduated with a degree in law from the National University of Singapore. Rumor said that he is related to the billionaire UOB Wee family. He is the son of Singapore’s former chief justice Wee Chong Jin. Patrick became the Singapore partner in Ray Wilson California Fitness in 1997 and subsequently helped to set up its two Singapore branches in Orchard Road and Raffles city.
In 1999, he sold his shares in the Singapore-based company to a US capital venture fund. As part of the deal, he moved to Hong Kong to oversee California Fitness’ expansion beyond Hong Kong and Singapore into Taiwan, South Korea and Thailand.
In 2003, Wee successfully launched and managed those clubs. He joined his partner Eric Levine in acquiring the South Korean and Thai business units of California Fitness.
In the same year, he co-founded Planet Yoga with Master Kamal in Hong Kong and Hollywood Fitness in Taiwan. However, he sold Hollywood Fitness to California Fitness in year 2004.
Later, he decided to make something big on his own – True Yoga.
I believe that Patrick does not expect True Yoga would grow that fast. He started the first flagship studio of True Yoga at Pacific Plaza, Singapore in late 2004. But, the brand of True Yoga is overshadowed by True Fitness which was actually set up at the later time in Malaysia. Sri Hartamas True Fitness centre, which has the built area of 40,000 square, became the talk of the town when it first opened in May 2005. It is not the discotheque lookalike environment that set it apart from other gyms, it is the huge money investment that stunned the industry.
Patrick poured about RM10 million to get the center up and running within short period. The place has studios, shower rooms, lockers, steam rooms, retail store and nursery in addition to the standard state of the art equipments. That centre became the springboard for its regional success.
Later, he decided to have a holding company with the name of TRUE. TRUE will be the complete fitness lifestyle centre that offers yoga (True Yoga), fitness (True Fitness), spa (True Spa) and aesthetics treatments (True ‘Est) under one umbrella.
In one of the interviews, Patrick said “I do not view Fitness First or Celebrity Fitness as my competitors. It is the matter of offering consumers variety in their fitness lifestyle.” In a way, he is right. The pie is still big enough.
Here are the latest list of TRUE (as of August 2007):
1) Singapore
- 2 True Yoga outlets (Pacific Plaza and Ocen Towers)
- 1 True ‘Est (Ngee Ann City Tower)
- 1 TRUE (OUB Centre)
2) Taiwan
- 2 True Yoga outlets (Chung Hsiao Centre and Asia World Centre)
3) Malaysia
- 1 True Fitness outlet (Desa Sri Hartamas)
- 2 True Fitness + Yoga + Spa ( Taipan and Jaya 33)
- 1 True Fitness + Yoga (Pavillion)
4) Thailand
- 1 True Fitness + Yoga + Spa + ‘Est (Sukhumvit Road)
I believe that True Fitness success is partly due to its marketing strategy with strong financial support and also because of the correct timing. Yoga popularity swept this region since year 2002 and it became almost a must-know item lately, for the young and old generation. By combining Yoga and Fitness in one center, it differentiates itself from others.
By 2010, the group expects to run 20 clubs in 5 countries. In August 2007, 11 of 20 clubs have been set up. Another 2.5 years to go, will it really be able to set up another 9 more clubs? Let’s wait and see.
I have republished my review of True Fitness outlets at Sri Hartamas, Taipan and Jaya 33. Check them out.
Category: Gym Going · True Fitness 
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Related Posts
- Review of True Fitness at Jaya 33
- Review of True Fitness at Desa Sri Hartamas (2)
- Review of True Fitness at Desa Sri Hartamas (1)
- Review of True Fitness at Taipan (2)
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sherrina // Aug 27, 2007 at 2:47 AM
wow…inspiring story.
ronaldsoo // Aug 29, 2007 at 10:56 AM
finally i got the full version of this story… rather than hearing those sales staff talking crab around
dokidoki // Aug 30, 2007 at 4:21 PM
yes…finally…hope to hear more TF from u..as i am going to join real soon :P
Elaine Lee // Sep 12, 2007 at 6:44 PM
I was extremely DISAPPOINTED coz being cheated by the sales counsellor at Desa Sri Hartamas.
My advise to all of you – pls make sure when you sign on the contract, all the packages / period has been clearly written on it before you sign it. They can just ask you to sign on the blank contract and later on put up a different chop stated the T&C on it!!!
Cedric // Sep 27, 2007 at 8:56 PM
Please do becareful with sales person not just from true fitness but all clubs…in reality…sales person are trained to persuade ppl to join…we as members or non-members failed to see that and put too much trust on it..a contract is still a contract…noting beats words of trust till u read it urself….you should be glad true fitness has a diferent approach….protecting their target market from mass market interest…..
CEL // Oct 24, 2007 at 10:24 PM
i was very disappointed of the true spa in jaya 33, when the time i signed i was told this branch will grand opening latest by 15 of sept but until now still no response from them. At first they feedback that they are insufficient of staff to contact all the existing true fitness member and told me that on early month of Oct will start operate. I understand that the things no always go well n smooth but at least, PLEASE drop me a mail or give me a ring that wat going on… Please!!!!!
wn // Mar 27, 2008 at 12:52 PM
i hope dis comment wil reach Patrick Wee, he really gotto look into some of the jaya33’s sales counsellor stantard. they persuade ppl to join on the spot not giving u change to think twice.
after u sign up..thats it…..if u feel being cheated….that is ur prob…..they keep ur money and go on looking for another victim.
the upper level staff also worse, they jz want MONEY and for them u r just a dumbbell.
desmond tan // Apr 8, 2008 at 10:00 AM
true yoga in singapore is cheat those who use gym only. close down gym say can go other true yoga club but other club don’t have gym. sell 2 year prepaid contract then keep gym open 1 year only!
Yv // Apr 11, 2008 at 11:38 PM
Ya, I am one of those who are stuck with a 3 yr gym membership. And i hardly use their yoga studios
annie // Apr 18, 2008 at 12:34 PM
me wrote to forum, hopefully they can give us all a good answer..but dunno will publish or not…
Duffy // Jun 14, 2008 at 10:17 AM
Not notify in written about the alternative use in other gym for those affected by them bringing down their OUB outlet with a gym. For past 3 months, wrote to them letters, calling them but did not reply at all.
No idea what to do as I am still committed to make payment to them via my credit cards and have 27 months to go!
Grace // Jul 16, 2008 at 11:19 AM
Hi all,
When UOB gym centre is closed down, members are not informed formerly by True Yoga management. We do expect some formal notification mails or announcement from the management. As a professional organisation, they shall be responsible to inform their members accordingly and at least announce their planning to replace the closed centre, such as the targeted date to reopening, location..etc.
I believe most members are paid for three centres’membership fees, but now we are enjoying only two centres’ facility. Closing down of the UOB gym centre even impacts more on those people who do gym or sign up gym training packages. Situation has becoming worse nowadays as large crowd of members(guess are regular visitors from UOB centre) are flooding to the other two centres. We are fighting for classes and doing yoga nowadays is no more a relaxing activity for me. I lost flexibility to choose my favourite classes as most of the bookings of evening classes are full one /two days in advanced. Besides, the service level is dropping, as staffs are tight up with long queues of members in the waiting list everyday, esp for the evening sessions. From now and then, you can here complaints and frustration remark among the crowd.
For months i am waiting for a proper arrangement from True Yoga management. No single formal announcement is made for the future planning. I hope this little feedback shall get some attention from the higher management. My advise is, True Yoga indeed has a good foundation and potential to grow in this industry, but please be conssitent in the service level, professional and responsible to your clients to sustain the reputation built these years.
nls // Jul 19, 2008 at 2:19 AM
most of the true fitness staff are useless ppl so dun expect anything done from them…go to consumer tribunal ask for advice….my bro sued them misleading and won the case…..feel pity for its founder…..poor guy
Ken L // Aug 6, 2008 at 3:48 PM
The whole TRUE Group is full of shit, and I can say that many times. I joined True Spa in 2007, this is the one located at Takashimaya, signed for a 12 session package and guess what, I only manage to use less than half. They cannot even get their operations right for a Spa. Examples;
1. Noisy Environment – screaming kids and aunties and uncles talking loudly outside the waiting area. Guess what, you can hear them in the treatment room. Hardly any peace.
2. Therapist – I am no stranger to using masseurs, and therapists are an integral part of the process. They change therapist without informing customers, whether they are on MC or off for the day.
3. Reminder Service – The TRUE Group of companies is truly a sales centric environment. Of course every organization is set up to make money, the difference is how you make the money, and what is the after sales service. In this case, TRUE is not only lack in sales ethics, but also there is no such thing as service, which is an integral part of a Spa business.
So, the above 3 things is good enough for a subscriber not to renew, so its like a Hit-and-Run business.
Joyce // Aug 23, 2008 at 2:01 PM
I agree with one of the comment left by someone as mentioned the staffs in True Yoga is not up to the standard. As a staff before in the office of True Yoga, I thought being in an established company hold certain security and fairness in the way the upper management treat people. But to my surprise, after some months of staying with the company,I realised the upper authority is abusing their authority to those of lower position which is not right. Obviously, the management in the company needs to be revised eg employing the right people for the higher authority. Without the right people in the company, the directions for the company may be affected as well as they are the ones who tell volumes about the company as a whole.
gym rat // Aug 23, 2008 at 11:29 PM
yes, i totally agree with the not up to standard staffs from True… i am from planet fitness and true yoga took over the business a wk or so ago… the physiques of their personal trainers are not typical of trainers…flabby arms, bulging bellies!!! and they push for sales which i found it rude and aggressive. and worse still, i heard them cursing in a string of fluent hoarse hokkien vulgarities just outside the parkway parade branch…. i am just hoping they do not replace the current aerobics, yoga instructors, and not change the current booking for classes system and not impose penalty charges or payment for classes.
mauritz fensham // Sep 17, 2008 at 7:14 PM
To whom it may concern:
I am very impress with the company profile and progression and would like to become part of your group. Can you please referme to the correct channel.
Regards
Mo
FJA // Oct 16, 2008 at 12:19 PM
If you are thinking of joining any fitness group run by True – DON’T !!!
The staff are lazy, unprofessional and totally lacking in honour. The gyms are health hazards and no one cares. Staff won’t return phone calls or reply to emails. I have complained to the Singapore government agencies about all the health hazards and they are currently investigating.
Anne // Oct 30, 2008 at 4:37 PM
It is true they not working at all times. I visited them on a public holiday and wanted to see their operations mgr. They claim that the person in charge is at COURT, in the end they wrote a letter for misleading me. They do not pick up calls and have no plans to serve us.
nls // Oct 30, 2008 at 6:36 PM
they gotto go to tribunal court coz many ppl suing em…..
truemember // Nov 14, 2008 at 2:53 PM
I have been a Planet Fitness member for some years.
I noticed on a number of occasions, one relatively new female membership consultant (with long blonde-colored hair) @ Suntec City outlet, using her sex appeal on males to sign up membership. Being a long-time member and familiar with a couple of their old staff, I was told that she has caused the breakup of one marriage and was even approached by the member concerned.
I trust a reputable businessman like Mr Patrick Wee and his management team will ensure that their company’s success is achieved with integrity, and ensure that they uphold their company’s image at all times. I am therefore confident that they will investigate and address our concerns.
Meanwhile, let us continue to enjoy our work-outs at True Fitness.
By the way, congratulations on your acquisition, Mr Wee!
Huda Dogan // Dec 19, 2008 at 1:15 AM
I visited your club at the Pavillion which has True Fitness + Yoga. I was very impressed with the location and cleanness of the Health Club and your Mind & Body. I heard True Fitness is coming to Dubai and I can’t wait for that. I have 12 years Exp. In the states and Dubai and would love to see True Fitness in the Middle East!!!!
Jamie // Jan 15, 2009 at 11:46 AM
I am surprised with the people they employed in True Yoga as mentioned from the above comments. It’s true in a way some employees are not doing their work in the company,esp those in the manager level. They left all the work to be done by the junior staffs. All I know is they allowed msn and internet for those in the higher authority,therefore maybe they are busy chatting with people,that’s why no time to do the serious stuffs at work….Haha. I advised those who wanted to sign up for the packages to consider seriously before taking up so as to avoid the delay in their refund system… by their Credit Control/Membership Manager. Sometimes I also wonder why they go to work everyday if they do not want to do anything in the office…Hehe.
Huda Dogan // Jan 15, 2009 at 12:38 PM
Gym is a place to workout not wondering what the staff is doing. Why is everyone watching the management and others? Just because they are online does not mean they don’t do the job. Why don’t you try to talk to the manager and tell them how you feel and I’m sure they will do the best they can. True Fitness is one of the best Gyms I have been in and I worked in the USA and Dubai. Please meet the manager in person and if they are busy try again next time. Don’t take your anger on the website. When I visited True Fitness I talked to members and they are all so happy.
My advice is to try to find the manager and talk to them and explain the problem. Explain don’t argue
Good luck
Jamie // Jan 16, 2009 at 11:53 PM
Yes I truly agree that the fitness centre is good for the members who used it. The reason why I think things are left undone by the managers in the company is because of the case as what you can see in the news not long ago regarding the refund issue. Yes, I know exactly what’s going on in the company as I heard from a staff who used to work there before that those who are in charge are not at all listening to what was being complained and said. Cases were being left unsolved one after another and they just can go to office as seem nothing is happening…even when the court letters were being issued to the respective person in charge..how sad it is for the Boss who employed such people in the company. Just my opinion about the matter, not arguing at any point,frankly speaking from my heart.
akashi // Feb 5, 2009 at 11:15 AM
the news that you read in the papers are all the problems from PLANET FITNESS. true fitness only bought over planet fitness in aug i think. so these management of true fitness re being nice to settle things for the previous planet fitness. well people, BEFORE YOU SIGN UP PLEASE GET YOUR INFO CLEAR. i find true fitness is a good gym. the classes are all fantastic!
nls // Feb 9, 2009 at 9:00 AM
to Huda Dogan,
dun compare oversea with malaysia, check jaya33 mnager is worst, they hire low quality worker makes the centre worst…my brother is one of the victim…luckily he fight his righs back
to Akashi,
the workers at some true fitness centre are UNPROFESSIONAL…spoilt the centre….BEFORE YOU SIGN UP PLEASE GET YOUR INFO CLEAR
to all who cheated by hose workers, go to tribunal court sue them.
Mingming // Mar 30, 2009 at 11:31 AM
I went to True Spa at Takashimaya for the free trial last week. They let me wait for 20 minutes without a valid reason. The attitute of the counter staff is not friendly. In the end, I did not sign any package.
wei ling // Apr 17, 2009 at 3:09 AM
in reference to one of the comments made, I SO AGREE THAT THE STAFF AT TRUE YOGA DO NOT REPLY TO EMAILS OR PHONECALLS. One even chickened out and sent out a new guy to talk to me, after making me wait for almost an hour. PATHETIC.
The management is terrible. DO NOT SIGN UP FOR ANY OF THESE TRUE CONTRACTS. Because the staff just doesn’t care. All they want is money. They don’t give a damn about your health.
ling // May 11, 2009 at 10:57 AM
True Fitness outlets only look good on the outside but the staff are mostly
“couldnt care less” attitude. Plus they don’t really look into maintaining their equipments. Sometimes, I see the same machine “not working”for weeks! I have even heard customers complaining the same to the staff at their counters week after week.
Shower rooms are badly lighted up (especially the one in Subang Taipan), pipes leaking, soap dispenser broken neither are they properly labelled.
It is really sad that Patrick Wee pumps in money to start up a centre without passion of committing to its customers in terms of its services.
nls // May 11, 2009 at 5:34 PM
Patrick Wee wont care la…jz tell every one u know not to join this lousy fitness center!
Leong // Oct 15, 2009 at 5:04 PM
i wish i rhave ead about this website 2.5mths earlier so that I wouldn’t hv make a regretful decision to sign up with True Fitness. It’s one of the worst experience I ever had, nightmare! I join TF two and half months ago and I have not been given a proper membership card. I am using that stupid paper to access the club everytime I need to go to the gym. Call up Joe, the sales personnel from Suntec City and he simply give me empty promises. He promise that I will get my card by this week and when i check with him about the status of the card, he told me it’s still in process and that he has tried his best. As if i’m the one who is at fault and begging him for the card. Plus I was given unfrenly attitude whenever I visited the gym, as if I own them $$. It was really terrible. Instead of unwinding myself after a hard day at work by working out at a gym, I felt distress and making me go through all these unpleasant time in the gym. The facitilies at Vivo was horrible and sucks. The bathroom was always wet and dirty, I don’t even dare to bath there after one time. The lockroom was so smelly at one time that I have to hold on to my breadth, The lock room was so tiny that i get bump into whenever i move slightly. The most insulting thing was I was asked to produce my IC for verification when i use that piece of pathetic paper to access the gym. In the first place, if my card was processing and given to me promptly, would I be using that stupid paper for entrance? make me look like as if i’m trying to cheat for entry into the gym. I have demanded to cancel the membership and they refused. Can anyone help me on that? Should I report to the media or even CASE?