By Leslee Jaquette
Even though I enjoy working out, when I’m traveling I rarely head to my hotel or motel’s exercise center. Usually, these places have a stationary bike, a few weights or maybe some other equipment. But it doesn’t look very attractive after a long day, does it?
But get this. Many luxury hotels such as the Ritz Carlton Harbor, Miami, are starting Core Fusion classes and yoga in an attempt to lure health-conscious guest to their properties.
In a recent article in the Wall Street Journal by Andrea Peterson titled “The New Luxury at Luxury Hotels: Fitness Class,” she says many properties are striking deals with elite companies like Exhale and SoulCycle to attract particularly more younger travelers and women.
Interestingly, locals often make up more than 75 percent of the class members. Bringing in locals not only makes the classes more exciting, it helps the hotel sustain the cost.
The classes may help travelers actually follow-through on their goal to workout on the road. The article notes that about 25 percent of travelers carry fitness clothes, but most don’t use them. However, a survey indicates that about 45 percent of 18 – 35 year-olds say a fitness class, spa or other offerings would influence their choice of hotel. About 38 percent of 36-49 year-oldand 31 percent of 50-to 68 year-olds say the same.
Would a fitness class or yoga make the difference in your choice of hotel?
