Sports resorts in Asia to up your fitness game
Whether you have always fantasized of becoming an Olympian or simply want to learn a new skill, you will return from these fitness-focused resorts in Southeast Asia recharged and more confident.
- March 2020
Yoga and spa retreats are commonplace in Southeast Asia. However, as health and wellness become top priorities for travellers, a rising number of resorts have expanded their fitness offerings. Some have even put sport front and centre, as in the case of Phuket’s Thanyapura Health & Sports Resort. “70 percent of our guests come to develop their skills and improve their performance on the court, track or pool,” says Ruben Toral, Thanyapura’s vice president of business development.
The resort’s world-class facilities host top sports stars from around the world, including national swim teams, triathletes and even athletes training for the Tokyo 2020 Olympics. At the same time, the resort attracts casual athletes and urban dwellers seeking balance in their lives. “People are investing their time and money doing things that will have a positive impact on their health and personal development,” says Toral.
From Siem Reap to Bali, here are some venues in the region to check out if you’re thinking of making your next vacation an active one.
Thanyapura Health & Sports Resort, Phuket
This all-encompassing resort has pulled out all the stops to build top-notch sporting facilities. This includes an Olympic-sized pool, a FIFA standard soccer pitch, an athletic track and indoor and outdoor tennis courts. Its daily activity programmes are free for guests and run the gamut from Zumba and Muay Thai to aerial yoga and tennis classes.
Address: 120/1 Moo 7, Thepkasattri Rd Thalang, Phuket
Tel: +6676336000
thanyapura.com
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The Farm at San Benito, Lipa City
A two-hour drive from Manila, The Farm at San Benito is a health and wellness resort that designs tailor-made programmes to meet your fitness goals, whether that is weight management, heart health or diabetes prevention. Daily activities range from yoga to power walking, but if you want to up the ante, the Functional Fitness Programme that consists of interval training and circuit workouts will do the job.
Address: 119 Barangay Tipakan, Lipa City
Tel: +6328848074
thefarmatsanbenito.com
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The Pineapple House, Bali
This boutique resort in Canggu promises a supportive environment for guests to learn how to surf. To ensure you have enough time to pick up the finer points of catching a wave, opt for the seven-night retreat, which includes a stay in a cosy room, five surf sessions and three yoga classes.
Address: Jl. Subak Sari No.15, Canggu, Kec. Kuta Utara, Kabupaten Badung, Bali
Tel: +6282329601181
pineapplehousebali.com
READ MORE: Top wellness experiences in Bali (that have nothing to do with yoga)
Kingdom Fight Gym, Siem Reap
This gym specialises in Kun Khmer (Cambodian kick-boxing) and offers various packages for travellers to meet their specific training goals. Those who want to combine sightseeing with training can opt for the 11-day Siem Reap Discovery training package. In between mastering your kicks and punches, enjoy downtime at arranged day trips to attractions like Angkor Archaeological Park.
Address: 163 Sombai Rd, Krong Siem Reap
Tel: +85510272902
kfgtravels.com
Chiva-Som, Hua Hin
This luxe retreat three hours away from Bangkok draws the well-heeled set. Here, you can focus on achieving health goals like pain management, weight loss and mindfulness. It also offers a wide range of fitness classes to ensure long-stayers will not get bored, such as aerobics and toning ball workouts.
Address: 73/4 Petchkasem Road, Tambon Nong Kae, Hua Hin
Tel: +6632536536
chivasom.com
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