Summer is officially here. School is out, cookouts are commencing and everyone is in the mindset for some warm weather fun. Many take the term “summer vacation” literally and pack their bags for a relaxing get-away. For the hospitality industry, the needs of these summer travelers extend past just a comfortable stay. Providing wellness and fitness options for health-conscious guests is now a must for hotels.
Hotel fitness centers are growing in popularity and quality. Long gone are the days of cramped, dimly lit hotel gyms with outdated equipment. Now hotel gyms are mimicking their commercial fitness club counterparts. This includes offering on-trend fitness options, such as classes with a local trainer. Pilates, Zumba, TurboKick and other group fitness activities are being offered more frequently to guests.
Hotel fitness equipment is also being upgraded to more technologically advanced models. Machines with entertainment options such as individual built-in TVs, docks for iPods or smartphones, or workout routine selections are gaining in popularity. Digitally smart machines are especially important in a hotel setting so that guests have the same level of advanced equipment while traveling as they do at home.
The varying needs of the hotel guests are also being addressed in modern hotels. Baby boomers are exploring this nation one vacation at a time. According to the Pew Internet and American Life Project, about 80% of leisure travel is comprised of Baby Boomers. The needs of aging users are being considered during the construction of many hotel fitness centers. Cardio machines that provide low joint impact exercise, such as ellipticals and recumbent bikes, are good options for this population.
Time is of the essence in any travel experience, whether during a vacation or work trip. Because of tight schedules, guests expect the luxury of enjoying hotel amenities whenever they require them. For fitness enthusiasts, this means a gym that is open 24/7. More hotels are offering around-the-clock gym access and trained professionals to oversee the guests’ usage of the equipment.
Savvy hotels are increasingly meeting the fitness needs of travelers. If you are in the hospitality industry and would like to explore which fitness solutions could best match your guests’ needs, please contact your local Push Pedal Pull representative today.