If you’re going on a cruise soon, you’re in for a treat! Cruise ship vacations offer plenty of entertainment, amenities, and activities for guests to enjoy daily.
But while many guests are interested in eating, drinking, and laying around all day (which there’s nothing wrong with), other guests might want to balance out their lazy days with some physical fitness to keep their bodies in shape while at sea.
Fortunately, today’s cruise gyms have come a long way from the early days when a few treadmills and some free weights were the norm. Most cruise lines now offer state-of-the-art fitness centers with the latest equipment, classes, and services.
This article will detail what to expect from a standard cruise gym, how to make the most of working out on a cruise, other ways to work out outside the gym, and more.
So whether you’re trying to stick with your health goals while at sea, counteract the all-you-can-eat buffets, or simply break a sweat, read on to learn more about staying in shape with your cruise’s gym.
Cruise Ship Gyms Have a Variety of Equipment
Despite the fact that the size, number, and variety of equipment in gyms may vary by cruise ship line, cruise ship gyms generally tend to be pretty well-equipped.
Plus, access to fitness centers and exercise classes is free on almost all cruise ship lines.
What Kind of Equipment Will I Find in the Gym?
The equipment you’ll find in a cruise gym is similar to that in a regular gym like cardio equipment. There may simply be fewer of each type of equipment than you’re used to due to space restrictions on the ship.
Here are some of the types of equipment you might find in a cruise ship gym:
- Treadmills
- Ellipticals
- Stationary Bikes
- Rowing Machines
- Free Weights
- Weight Machines
Some cruises will also have scheduled classes for guests to join throughout the day. Classes may include but aren’t limited to:
- Zumba Classes
- Yoga Classes
- Dance Classes
- Spin Classes
- Pilates Classes
As you can see, cruise ship gyms have everything you need to get in a good workout while on vacation.
Do Cruise Ships Have Personal Trainers?
Are you used to working out with a personal trainer but worried that you wouldn’t have access to one on a cruise?
No need to worry! Many cruise lines offer personal training services for guests. Usually, guests will have to book a specific time with a personal trainer, and this service may come at an additional charge.
When Is the Best Time of Day To Use the Gym?
If you want to use the gym without waiting for a machine, we recommend going during the cruise’s port days. Most guests will get off the ship to explore, so the gym will be less crowded.
However, if you’d like to get the most out of your port days while still finding time to pump some iron, the best time to go for you might be early in the morning or during lunch or dinner hours.
Late mornings (after breakfast) and late afternoons (after lunch) tend to be more crowded.
Gyms Are Not Open Around the Clock (But Keep Long Hours)
The cruise ship gym hours will vary by cruise line but are typically open early in the morning and close late at night. They are usually not 24-hours like your apartment or neighborhood gyms might be.
Are There Locker Rooms?
Gyms on cruises also tend to have additional components for convenience and ease, such as locker rooms, changing rooms, and shower rooms.
Ways To Work Out on a Cruise Beyond the Gym
In addition to working out in the gym, why not try working out outside the gym?
Here are several excellent options for working out on the deck and beyond.
Other Free Workout Options
You can walk around the deck, swim in the pool (or the ocean when you’re at a port), or join group fitness classes.
Cruise Ships Have Running Tracks
Cruise ships also tend to have running tracks on the top deck, so you can get your cardio in while enjoying the fresh air and ocean breeze.
Cruise Ships Often Have Sports Courts
Finally, cruise ships often have sports courts, which offer a great way to get in a game of tennis, basketball, or volleyball while on vacation.
Conclusion
There’s no need to worry about staying active when confined to a cruise ship, as these massive vessels have a lot to offer, including great cruise gyms.
Additionally, if you want to move your body in ways outside the gym, there’ll likely be plenty of options for running, swimming, and playing throughout the ship.
