Revamping Hotel Fitness: Beyond the Treadmill

Hotel gyms tend to take a beating on social media—and for good reason. Think small, uninspiring spaces with outdated or missing equipment. But this doesn’t have to be the norm. Remember how hotel restaurants used to feel like afterthoughts? That was until hotels realized that reinventing dining spaces could not only enhance guest experiences but also attract locals. The same potential exists for fitness spaces.

Here’s how two drastically different approaches are redefining the concept of hotel gyms:

The Local Trendsetter: Partnering with Gym Brands
The Social Hub Amsterdam embraced a fresh concept by teaming up with Vondelgym, a popular local fitness brand. Instead of running the gym in-house, the hotel handed over operations to the gym’s experts.

This partnership achieves several goals:
– The gym becomes a magnet for locals, creating a lively and dynamic atmosphere.
– The hotel avoids operational costs while benefiting from increased foot traffic.
– Guests gain access to a top-tier fitness experience that feels authentic and modern.

This model works because it lets fitness experts focus on creating a stellar gym while the hotel concentrates on hospitality.

The Nearby Alternative: Partnering with Local Gyms
Not every hotel needs its own gym. *Bob W*, a network of serviced apartments across Europe, took a different route. Instead of maintaining in-house gyms, they partnered with high-quality fitness centers within walking distance of their properties.

This strategy offers several advantages:
– Guests gain access to fully equipped gyms with professional trainers.
– The hotel avoids maintenance and staffing costs.
– Local gyms benefit from increased memberships, fostering community ties.

As Bob W’s founder, Niko, explains, it’s about providing value without overextending resources.

What’s Next? Reimagining Hotel Gym Spaces
If fitness doesn’t align with your hotel’s vibe or resources, maybe it’s time to rethink the space altogether. That underused treadmill corner could transform into something unique:
– A tranquil yoga studio or meditation room.
– A coworking space for busy travelers.
– A vibrant, multi-purpose area for events or pop-up experiences.

The key is to create something that resonates with your brand and adds value for your guests.

Call to Action:
What does the future of hotel gyms look like? Whether it’s creative partnerships or bold reinventions, the opportunities are endless. Share your ideas for transforming fitness spaces and making them unforgettable!