Exercising on vacation can be an exciting way to explore new destinations while staying healthy. Whether you’re a gym rat or prefer getting out into the great outdoors, these are some of the best places I have visited in the last few years that offer diverse training opportunities for fitness enthusiasts.
I built a career in the UK coaching boxing and conditioning training, and staying active and healthy while traveling is a big deal for me. So, from high-tech health clubs to rugged hiking trails, here’s a guide to the best cities for fitness and exercising on vacation.
Nashville, Tennessee
Nashville might be known for its music, but it’s also a great place to exercise and a hub for fitness lovers. The city has many small independent personal training studios, group training clubs, and huge health clubs.
Gyms like Anytime Fitness are affordable and welcoming for travelers. In the USA, most towns and cities (Nashville included) have a Parks and Recreation center or a YMCA with decent fitness equipment. Day passes are always a great option, but you can also find monthly memberships for as low as $15.
Although pretty prevalent throughout Nashville and the US, Planet Fitness might not be accessible to most non-US residents as they require a US bank account. But for outdoor lovers, Nashville is also a great place for hiking, we loved hiking the scenic trails around Radnor Lake and Percy Warner Park.
Don’t forget to check out my Definitive Guide to House Sitting in Nashville for insider tips.
Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
Surprisingly, Ho Chi Minh City has an impressive fitness scene. Alongside well-known International gym chains, you’ll find Vietnamese-owned health clubs offering some of the best facilities I have ever seen. Many hotels in the city also open their gyms to the public, which is a great option for short stays.
Monthly memberships in Ho Chi Minh City are comparable to global prices, ranging from $25 to $50, which can feel pricey compared to the city’s otherwise budget-friendly lifestyle. But, the outstanding service, spotlessly clean facilities, and great equipment are worth the fee.
If you’re in an Airbnb or house sitting, consider asking your host if they know of any gyms nearby. Expert Tips for Keeping Fit While Traveling the World includes more tips for fitness-savvy travelers.
London, UK
London’s fitness options are as diverse as its culture. You’ll find everything from boutique studios to massive 24/7 gyms with flexible, no-commitment memberships. Many fitness clubs allow you to sign up online, simplifying the process for short-stay travelers.
Prices vary widely, starting at $20 per month for budget gyms and going up into the stratosphere for premium facilities. London also has an incredible variety of sports clubs and wellness centers, offering yoga, swimming, and martial arts.
Outdoor exercise opportunities are plentiful, with iconic spots like Hyde Park and Regent’s Park providing perfect settings for running or bodyweight workouts.
Bangkok, Thailand
Thailand is famous for its world-class Muay Thai gyms and attracts fitness enthusiasts who want a rugged, old-school training experience. From Bangkok to smaller towns, you’ll find facilities offering traditional training alongside more modern gym options.
For those who love a good sweaty gym (as I do!), Thailand’s outdoor functional fitness areas and local hiking trails add a fun twist to working out. Gym memberships are extremely affordable, ranging from $20 to $30, and signing up is usually quick and straightforward.
So, whether you’re training for Muay Thai, want that sweaty gym vibe, or are just looking for free exercise options, Thailand is a fitness enthusiast’s dream
Adelaide, Australia
Adelaide may not be Australia’s largest city, but it punches above its weight when it comes to fitness culture. Even whilst house sitting an hour outside of the city in tiny Goolwa, we had a choice of three 24/7 gyms. Fitness is a way of life in Australia, and that ethos shines through in Adelaide.
With gym memberships as low as $15 per month, the city caters to all budgets. Many fitness facilities here are open 24/7, making it easy to work out on your schedule, helpful with the jet lag and time difference! Don’t miss out on outdoor options either; the trails in the Adelaide Hills are perfect for hiking or running.
For an inside look at staying in Australia’s smaller towns, check out Unexpected Amazing Places: 2 Months House Sitting in Goolwa.
Santa Teresa, Costa Rica
Santa Teresa’s fitness scene is surprisingly robust for such a small town. This beachside destination has a couple of great independent gyms and fitness studios, many of which offer affordable pay-as-you-go memberships. From yoga to CrossFit, you’ll have choices here.
During my time in Santa Teresa, I joined a beachside personal training group and completed 21 sessions in just 23 days. It was a great experience after a significant spell without gym access and I felt awesome when we left our house sit in Santa Teresa. All the training cost me less than $60, a bargain!
Outside of cities like San José, you’ll primarily find smaller weightlifting clubs rather than large gym chains. Prices are reasonable, typically ranging from $15 to $30 per month.
Singapore, Singapore
Singapore, with its high living cost, might seem like a challenging (and expensive!) place to keep fit. However, it turned out to be one of the most convenient cities for exercising on vacation. The standout option here is The Gym Pod, an innovative concept that makes working out incredibly accessible.
Gym Pods are self-contained private workout spaces dotted across the city. They range from compact single-user pods to larger functional training gyms, all well-equipped with everything you need. The system is fully digital – you book and pay for sessions online.
We tried four different pods during our stay, and all were excellent, offering top-notch equipment and a hassle-free experience. Prices start at around $5 per session if you bulk-buy packages, and you can often bring a second person for a reduced rate. It’s the perfect fitness solution for a short-term stay.
Additional Tips for Exercising on Vacation
- Day Passes Are Your Friend
If a monthly gym membership isn’t feasible, consider purchasing day passes. Many gyms, especially in tourist-friendly cities, offer this option at affordable rates. Some even have free trials and on several occasions, some gyms have just let me train for free! - Get Creative with Equipment
Don’t have access to weights? Use large water containers or rocks to create DIY dumbbells. I used this trick in Mexico and found it surprisingly effective for maintaining strength training routines. - Embrace the Outdoors
Hiking and running routes are excellent ways to combine exercise with sightseeing. Cities like Nashville, Ho Chi Minh City, and Adelaide have incredible outdoor trails that double as fitness spots. - Consider Cycling
Many destinations offer affordable bike rentals, whether through hotels, local rental shops, or house-sitting hosts. Cycling is a fantastic way to explore and stay active. - Stay Balanced
Remember, exercising on vacation doesn’t have to mean going full throttle. Even moderate activity, like walking or yoga, can keep you fit without taking away from the travel experience. - Be Blunt and Haggle
Many gyms lock their members into long contracts with hefty joining fees, admin fees, and monthly costs. If you are only in town for a few weeks try and speak to a member of staff directly and explain your situation. Email them ahead of time and see if you can book an appointment.
Final Thoughts
Exercising on vacation doesn’t just keep you healthy – it can also enrich your travel experiences. As someone who has spent their life in the fitness industry, it’s something I enjoy experiencing in different cities and countries.
Whether you’re exploring Nashville’s hiking trails, training Muay Thai in Thailand, or joining a beach workout in Santa Teresa, these destinations are perfect for fitness enthusiasts. Enjoy your travels and enjoy your training!
Interested in traveling full-time, read How to Travel the World on an Accommodation Budget next.
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