The Ministry of Education, Sport and Culture announced on March 11 the renewal of its partnership with the Smart Fit gym chain as part of the new High Performance Plan for Los Angeles 2028. The announcement was made through the Vice Ministry of Sport during an event in the north of the capital.
The renewed agreement aims to support national athletes by providing them with resources to focus on their training and competition. The plan is designed to help athletes prepare for international events, including the upcoming Olympic Games.
Roberto Ibáñez, Vice Minister of Sport, said, “This agreement confirms the commitment of private companies to our athletes and to sports in our country. It is one of the benefits included in the High Performance Plan for each one of you, who should concentrate solely on your preparation and competing at the highest level.”
The Black VIP membership will last one year and benefit athletes who are part of the High Performance Plan (PAR), which currently includes 293 participants. The membership provides access to over 600 facilities both inside and outside Ecuador, including countries such as Brazil, Mexico, Dominican Republic, Peru, and Colombia. Additional services include use of wet areas, spa treatments, post-training massages, and guidance from qualified instructors.
Beli Cruz, regional manager at Smart Fit, said: “We are happy to continue being part of High Performance and joining its team. This renewal of membership, which began in 2024 ahead of the Paris Olympic Games, motivates us to keep supporting the development of top athletes in our country who will seek new medals in Los Angeles 2028.”
To obtain a membership, athletes must indicate their participation in the plan and complete a form that will be reviewed within two days. They can use gym facilities while their application is processed.
Franklin León, a powerlifting athlete, said: “I want to thank you on behalf of all athletes for thinking about our preparation and managing these benefits for us. This is what we have been waiting for a long time and today it becomes reality again.”
The government says this initiative reaffirms its commitment to supporting national athletes as they strive for further achievements.
