With the release of Grand Theft Auto: The Trilogy - The Definitive Edition, players finally have the opportunity to dive back into one iconic open-world classic. Originally released in 2004, critics often praise GTA San Andreas for its gripping narrative and in-depth customization that allows players free rein over how protagonist Carl "CJ" Johnson looks. Not only can CJ get different hairstyles, tattoos, and clothing, but he can also hit the gym to gain muscle and learn new fighting moves.
For the uninitiated, Grand Theft Auto San Andreas follows former gangster CJ, who returns home after the death of his mother and is drawn back into his former gang and a life of crime while clashing with corrupt authorities and rival criminal syndicates. However, below the surface of the scripted narrative, the game is loaded with interchangeable gameplay factors, like the fact that CJ can gain weight, become skinny, extremely muscular. These options are entirely up to the player and are affected by visiting any of the gyms.
How to Unlock Gyms in GTA: San Andreas
Indoor gymnasiums are unlocked once the player receives a phone call from Sweet after the mission "Drive-Thru." Sweet is the older brother of GTA San Andreas protagonist Carl Johnson and looks out for him by explaining the benefits of gyms before pointing one out on the map. Fortunately, all gyms are open all day, every week. However, if the player loses 40% fat or gains 20% Stamina or Muscle in a single day, they will have to wait 12 in-game hours before being allowed to work out again.
How Gyms improve CJ in GTA: San Andreas
As briefly touched upon, burning is facilitated by various gyms located throughout the game world where CJ can lift weights or use a bike to increase his muscle stat. On top of the statistical boost, doing so will also change how muscular CJ looks, which further increases his Sex Appeal and makes it easier to start a romance in GTA San Andreas.
Where To Find All Three Gyms in GTA: San Andreas
There are three major gyms, each located across three of GTA San Andreas' expansive districts. Luckily, they are clearly marked on the map with a bright red dumbbell icon.
- Ganton Gym - Located in Ganton, Los Santos.
- Cobra Marital Arts Gym - Located in Garcia, San Fierro.
- Below the Belt Gym - Located in Redsands East, Las Venturas.
In addition, two more gyms are present in the game, although they remain unmarked from the map:
- Unnamed outdoor gym - Located at Verona Beach, Los Santos.
- Private gym - Located inside Madd Dogg's Crib in Mulholland, Los Santos. Unlocked after the mission "A Home in the Hills"
To summarize, while CJ is looking better than ever thanks to the GTA Trilogy's improved textures and graphics, players can also make CJ feel his absolute best by visiting any of the gyms scattered around San Andreas. Doing so will benefit multiple gameplay facets. For example, a muscly CJ will deal with more damage by hitting stronger, while having higher stamina will allow for longer sprints.
Grand Theft Auto: The Trilogy - The Definitive Edition is available for PC, PS4, PS5, Switch, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X/S.
