Welcome to the story of Bua Collective — a story of sweat, community, growth and victory. For the last thirteen years we have built something real in the Irish fitness scene. Below you’ll find how we began, how we expanded from one humble location into a network, and how our ethos has stayed constant.

Founding in 2012

Our journey began in 2012, when Bua first opened its doors (then under the name CrossFit Swords) in a small 1 000 sq ft space in Airside Retail Park, Swords. The equipment was minimal — 4 barbells, 8 kettlebells and a pull‑up bar. What we lacked in size we made up with passion and purpose. Bua Collective » Hungry. Humble. Happy.+1

By 2013 we had upgraded flooring, squat racks, rowing machines and homemade medicine balls. The shift from warehouse‑style to real gym was happening. Bua Collective » Hungry. Humble. Happy.

Then by Xmas 2014 we moved into a 6 000 sq ft facility — suddenly this little gym became one of Dublin’s largest CrossFit‑style gyms. Bua Collective » Hungry. Humble. Happy.

Growth & Evolution (2015‑2017)

Between 2015 and 2017 we saw the community double, triple, even quadruple in size. Coaches travelled internationally to refine their craft. The mission became clearer: we weren’t just lifting weights, we were forging a community of daily improvement. Bua Collective » Hungry. Humble. Happy.

In 2018 we rebranded from CrossFit Swords to “Bua” — the Irish word for victory. That name represented the personal daily wins our members achieve. Bua Collective » Hungry. Humble. Happy.

The Multi‑Location Era: From One Gym to Five

Santry (Dublin)

Our main facility in Santry (Unit 6A, Santry Hall Industrial Estate, Swords Rd, Dublin 9) became the home base of our culture. Bua Collective » Hungry. Humble. Happy.+1

Naas and Celbridge (Co Kildare)

In summer 2021 we opened in Naas, Co Kildare. A month later we added Celbridge via acquisition of an existing CrossFit affiliate, bringing us firmly into more regional expansion. Bua Collective » Hungry. Humble. Happy.

Dunleer (Co Louth) & Smithfield (Dublin)

Summer 2022 saw two more openings: Dunleer in Co Louth, and Smithfield in the heart of Dublin city, making five locations total. Bua Collective » Hungry. Humble. Happy.+1

Our Ethos: Hungry, Humble, Happy

From day one the culture has been:

• Hungry – striving for growth, embracing challenge. Bua Collective » Hungry. Humble. Happy.

• Humble – we stay coachable, respect our fundamentals. Bua Collective » Hungry. Humble. Happy.

• Happy – we build relationships, a supportive community that keeps people coming back. Bua Collective » Hungry. Humble. Happy.

Why This History Matters for You

• Established 13 years means trust, experience and proven results.

• Multi‑locations mean flexibility: whether you’re in North Dublin, Kildare or Louth, you’ve got access.

• Strong coaching and community means it’s not just about training — it’s about belonging.

• The growth story shows ambition — we keep pushing and improving so you benefit.

Key Milestones at a Glance

• 2012: Launch in Swords (Airside Retail Park) with minimal gear.

• 2014: Move to large 6 000 sq ft facility.

• 2018: Rebrand to Bua.

• 2021: Expanded to Naas and Celbridge.

• 2022: Opened Dunleer and Smithfield, reaching five locations.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a gym with depth, roots, community and ambition then Bua is built for that. The years of growth reinforce our commitment to you — our member — and every class, every coach, every location is part of that story. Try with us here.