Want to stay fit on vacation without leaving your rental? Luxury vacation rentals now feature private gyms, making it easier to maintain your fitness routine while enjoying comfort and privacy. Here’s why these gyms are becoming a must-have for travelers:
- Convenience: Workout whenever you want – no need to find a local gym or deal with crowded hotel fitness centers.
- Privacy: Enjoy a personal, distraction-free space tailored to your needs.
- High-End Equipment: Access premium machines, free weights, and even smart fitness technology.
- Wellness Integration: Many rentals include extras like yoga areas, saunas, and meditation spaces.
With wellness tourism projected to reach $8.5 trillion by 2027, private gyms are no longer just a perk – they’re essential for travelers prioritizing health. Whether you’re a fitness enthusiast or just want to stay active, these amenities transform vacations into a blend of relaxation and rejuvenation.
Stunning Vacation Home with Private Pool, Gym & Sauna | Wander Joshua Tree
Why Private Gyms Are Popular in Luxury Vacation Rentals
The growing demand for private gyms in luxury vacation rentals highlights a shift in how high-end travelers approach their getaways. For many, these gyms are no longer just an extra perk – they’ve become an essential part of the experience.
This rising popularity stems from advantages that traditional hotel gyms or public fitness centers simply can’t compete with.
Convenience and Privacy
Private gyms eliminate the usual hassles of staying fit while traveling. Guests don’t need to spend time hunting for local gyms, figuring out day passes, or navigating unfamiliar areas. Instead, they can keep up with their fitness routines just steps away from their vacation rental.
In fact, about 25% of U.S. homeowners already have a dedicated gym, with even higher rates among luxury properties. This underscores how much convenience matters, especially in the upscale market.
Privacy is another big draw. Public gyms can feel crowded or intimidating, and they lack the personalized atmosphere travelers often prefer. A private gym, on the other hand, offers complete control over the environment. Guests don’t have to worry about cleanliness or hygiene, and many luxury rentals go the extra mile by designing gyms with added privacy – like secluded entrances or areas shielded from outside views.
This combination of convenience and seclusion makes private gyms a standout feature, but there’s more to their appeal than just privacy.
High-Quality Equipment and Amenities
These private fitness spaces also shine when it comes to equipment. Luxury rentals often feature gear that rivals or even surpasses what’s found in premium health clubs. Think commercial-grade cardio machines, professional weight systems, and a variety of accessories like yoga mats, resistance bands, and foam rollers. Some properties even include cutting-edge options like smart fitness mirrors, which offer guided workouts and real-time feedback.
To attract guests, property owners frequently highlight these gyms in their listings with eye-catching photos and detailed descriptions of the equipment, including specifics like brand names and features.
A Better Wellness Experience
Private gyms don’t just add convenience – they elevate the entire luxury vacation experience. These spaces signal to guests that their well-being is a priority. And from a business perspective, rentals with wellness-focused amenities like gyms often stand out in the market, allowing owners to charge higher nightly rates.
This focus on wellness ties into a broader trend in travel. A 2016 HomeAway survey revealed that around 10% of U.S. travelers plan "fitcations", where physical activities are a key part of the trip. As Melanie Fish, a family travel expert at HomeAway, explained:
"More people are traveling for organized fitness events or at least building workout time into their trip to make up for vacation indulgences. For some, that means renting a home near hiking trails or a home that comes with fitness options like a gym."
This shift reflects a deeper change in how luxury travelers view their vacations. Wellness is no longer an afterthought – it’s becoming a defining feature of premium stays. Private gyms now serve as a hallmark of truly high-end properties, setting them apart from even the most luxurious alternatives.
What to Expect in Private Gyms at Luxury Rentals
Private gyms in luxury rentals combine top-tier functionality with sleek, sophisticated design, creating a workout space that’s as stylish as it is effective.
Modern Equipment
These gyms are equipped with high-performance machines from leading brands like Life Fitness, Precor, and Technogym, alongside boutique names that focus on both functionality and aesthetics. Whether you’re into cardio or strength training, you’ll find equipment designed to meet professional standards while complementing the luxurious surroundings.
For cardio lovers, expect treadmills with advanced features, stationary bikes offering smooth rides, and rowing machines that sync with wellness apps. High-end brands like PENT. take it up a notch. For instance, the PENT. Hania™ Stationary Bicycle comes with a price tag of $10,458.00, while their IRENA™ Premium Curve Manual Treadmill starts at $13,165.00. These machines are not just tools – they’re statement pieces.
Strength training options are equally impressive. You’ll find free weights, adjustable benches, squat racks, and functional trainers, often crafted with custom finishes. NOHRD, for example, offers equipment in walnut, ash, or oak to seamlessly blend into designer spaces. Their DumbBells Set costs $9,799.00, while the SquatRack is priced at $2,999.00. For those looking to mix things up, there are also TRX systems, resistance bands, medicine balls, and battle ropes to maximize variety without taking up too much room.
"The Most Exquisite Fitness Equipment You’ve Ever Seen" – this is not an exaggeration but a promise.
- PENT. Luxury Fitness Equipment
Durability is a top priority in these setups. The equipment is built to handle frequent use while maintaining its premium look and performance. But it’s not just about the machines – many of these gyms extend their offerings into specialized wellness spaces.
Additional Wellness Spaces
Luxury gyms often include areas dedicated to yoga and Pilates, complete with specialized flooring, mirrors, and storage for props. Some even feature meditation gardens or quiet zones designed for mindfulness practices.
Private spa facilities are also becoming a staple. Saunas, steam rooms, and massage rooms are common additions. For example, designer Stephen Stone transformed a Los Angeles home by converting a basement into a wellness haven. The space included a cross-fit gym, a lap pool with lounge areas, and a private massage room.
"In this Los Angeles residence, we converted a dark and dated basement to a new home wellness retreat, with a full cross-fit gym, a lap pool with lounge areas and a private massage room."
- Stephen Stone
Natural light and calming energy are key design elements. David Piscuskas from 1100 Architect highlights how they incorporated a skylight into a hammam beneath a backyard, creating a serene and naturally lit space.
"We knew natural light would be important for a wellness space. By inserting the hammam beneath the backyard, we were able to create a skylight set in a cast-concrete dome."
- David Piscuskas, 1100 Architect
This focus on wellness reflects a broader trend in luxury living. According to a Mansion Global report, affluent buyers are gravitating toward amenities that promote long-term well-being, such as meditation rooms and saunas.
Smart Technology Features
Technology elevates these private gyms into personalized, interactive fitness hubs. Smart home systems let users control lighting, temperature, and entertainment with voice commands or mobile apps. Climate control systems ensure the perfect workout environment, while smart lighting can shift from bright and energizing to soft and calming, depending on the activity.
Smart mirrors are a standout feature, offering interactive workout experiences. Brands like Vaha, Mirror, Forme, and NordicTrack Vault are leading the charge. For example, the NordicTrack Vault Complete edition includes premium dumbbells, kettlebells, and accessories for yoga, Pilates, and strength training – all integrated with its smart mirror system.
Some gyms go even further with AI-powered systems that create personalized routines, virtual reality setups for immersive workouts, and meditation apps. Certain properties even include sleep-enhancing technologies for a comprehensive wellness experience.
From voice-activated music to automated equipment adjustments, these features cater to luxury travelers who expect high-tech, tailored amenities. It’s all about creating a seamless, personalized fitness experience that meets the highest standards of comfort and innovation.
Benefits for Fitness-Focused Travelers
Luxury vacation rentals with private gyms are reshaping the way fitness enthusiasts approach travel. For those who prioritize health and wellness, these spaces make it easier than ever to stay active without compromising on vacation indulgences.
Maintaining Routines with Flexibility
Travel often disrupts fitness routines, but private gyms help bridge that gap by offering unmatched flexibility. With no commute or rigid schedules to worry about, you can work out whenever it suits you – whether that’s at the crack of dawn, between sightseeing adventures, or after a long day of relaxation.
According to a 2016 HomeAway survey, around 10% of U.S. travelers now plan "fitcations", vacations centered on physical activity. This growing trend highlights how wellness is becoming a key part of the travel experience.
"More people are traveling for organized fitness events or at least building workout time into their trip to make up for vacation indulgences. For some, that means renting a home near hiking trails or a home that comes with fitness options like a gym."
- Melanie Fish, HomeAway Family Travel Expert
Private gyms typically offer a variety of equipment and spaces, from cardio machines and free weights to areas for bodyweight exercises. This versatility allows you to tailor your workouts to match your energy levels and daily plans.
Privacy and Exclusivity
Another major advantage is the privacy these gyms provide. Unlike crowded public gyms, private spaces allow you to exercise without distractions or self-consciousness. This freedom encourages travelers to try new exercises, push their limits, and enjoy a more focused workout.
The exclusivity also means you won’t have to wait for equipment. Everything is ready when you are, making your workouts more efficient and enjoyable.
Better Wellness and Motivation
Private gyms in luxury rentals go beyond just convenience – they offer an environment designed to inspire and rejuvenate. Imagine working out with breathtaking views of mountains, the ocean, or lush gardens through floor-to-ceiling windows. These serene settings make exercise feel less like a chore and more like a rewarding ritual.
"Having a home gym in a vacation rental signals to these guests that their wellness is valued and catered for, paving the way for a holistic vacation experience."
Many of these high-end properties also include features like saunas, massage rooms, or meditation areas, creating a well-rounded wellness experience. For those traveling with a partner, family, or personal trainer, the private setting allows for group workouts tailored to everyone’s preferences. You can play your favorite music, chat freely, and build an atmosphere that supports your fitness goals while still enjoying the comforts of vacation.
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How Essentialyfe Improves the Experience
Essentialyfe transforms the rental experience by combining private gyms and concierge services into a complete wellness-centered offering.
Personalized Concierge Services
Essentialyfe takes convenience to the next level with personalized services designed to support your wellness journey. They connect guests with private trainers who provide expert guidance tailored to your fitness goals, whether you’re maintaining your routine or trying something new – all without the hassle of finding local options.
They also arrange in-home massage services to help you recover after a tough workout, making the transition from exercise to relaxation effortless. For those focused on nutrition, private chefs craft meals aligned with your dietary needs. Additional offerings, like IV drip therapy, grocery shopping assistance, and mobile wellness treatments, make every stay as seamless as possible.
These customized services perfectly complement the luxurious properties in their portfolio.
Luxury Property Features
Essentialyfe’s properties are designed to go beyond standard rentals, offering premium amenities that cater to active lifestyles. Think heated pools, spa facilities, and private gyms that seamlessly integrate into the overall luxury experience. These features create opportunities for everything from low-impact water workouts to post-exercise relaxation.
What sets these properties apart is the attention to detail in their design. Many include unique elements like floor-to-ceiling windows with stunning views, outdoor workout spaces connected to indoor gyms, or rooms specifically tailored for different fitness activities. Practical touches, such as pool and spa heating and dedicated housekeeping, ensure every aspect of your wellness-focused stay is covered.
This commitment to luxury extends to event planning for those seeking group wellness experiences.
Event Planning for Wellness-Focused Trips
Essentialyfe’s event planning services make it easy to organize group fitness and wellness-focused gatherings. Whether it’s a fitness retreat, a wellness workshop, or group training sessions, they ensure the private gym facilities and luxurious surroundings are fully utilized. For corporate retreats or family fitness vacations, they handle everything from security to transportation.
In November 2024, Essentialyfe showcased its event-hosting expertise by organizing a community gathering at one of its luxury properties. The event brought guests together over great food and lively conversation. Additionally, their sponsorship brokerage services are ideal for fitness influencers or wellness brands looking to host events or create content. Whether you’re planning a small personal training retreat or a large corporate wellness program, Essentialyfe adapts its properties and services to meet your needs, offering a truly tailored experience for travelers, event planners, and location scouts alike.
How to Choose a Luxury Rental with a Private Gym
Selecting a luxury rental with a private gym is about more than just fitness – it’s about aligning your wellness goals with your lifestyle while on vacation. To make the right choice, you’ll need to weigh factors like the gym’s features, its location within the property, and how well it integrates with other wellness amenities.
Evaluating Gym Features
Start by looking at the quality and variety of the gym equipment. A well-equipped space can make all the difference in maintaining your fitness routine. Check the gym’s size to ensure you won’t feel cramped, and prioritize properties with modern, well-maintained machines. For instance, the Oceanfront Kolea Home in Waikoloa Beach Resort, Hawaii, sets a high bar. Priced at around $2,000 per night, this 4-bedroom rental transformed a garage into a full-fledged gym complete with free weights, weight machines, yoga mats, and even a range-of-motion machine.
"Wow amenities: peloton bikes, pool table, home theater, and properly stocked essentials have all drawn comments in our guest surveys." – Robin Craigen, Co-founder/CEO of Moving Mountains®
A diverse range of equipment is key. Look for gyms that cater to various workout styles, from strength training with free weights and resistance machines to cardio workouts on treadmills or elliptical trainers. For example, the Country Home in Lakeside, California, offers a gym with weights, an elliptical trainer, a treadmill, and even a sauna for post-workout recovery – all for an average of $350 per night.
Small touches can set exceptional gyms apart. High-quality yoga mats, medicine balls, and smart speakers can elevate the experience. Also, consider the gym’s placement within the property. It should be easily accessible yet provide enough privacy to make your workouts comfortable and uninterrupted.
Location and Privacy
When it comes to luxury rentals, privacy is a top priority, especially for fitness enthusiasts. The best gyms are designed for convenience and discretion, offering direct access from living spaces or even private entrances.
"High-end guests often desire discretion and privacy. Consider design elements that shield the gym from external view, or even provide a private entrance." – Ardent Fitness
Pay attention to how the gym is positioned within the property. A well-thought-out design might include tinted windows, thoughtful landscaping, or an interior location that ensures privacy. For instance, the Sapphire Lodge at Braddock Hill in Breckenridge, Colorado, features a 1,000-square-foot indoor basketball court that guarantees complete privacy, with rates averaging $588 per night for up to 14 guests.
The surrounding environment also plays a role. Rentals in remote or secluded locations naturally offer more privacy, while those in busier areas should compensate with clever design features that create a private sanctuary for workouts.
Wellness Integration
A great private gym is just the start – look for properties that incorporate wellness into the broader experience. The best luxury rentals go beyond basic fitness setups, offering spaces like meditation rooms, saunas, or dedicated yoga areas. These extras can transform your vacation into a holistic wellness retreat.
Some properties combine gym access with additional amenities like heated pools, hot tubs, or spa services, creating a seamless blend of fitness and relaxation. Advanced features such as circadian rhythm lighting, air purification systems, and integrated sound systems are becoming increasingly common in high-end rentals. Some even offer virtual reality workouts or AI-driven fitness tracking.
For a truly elevated experience, consider properties that provide wellness-oriented services. On-site yoga instructors, guided meditation sessions, or nutrition counseling can add a personal touch to your stay. Take the Italian Farmhouse in Penne, Italy, for example. At an average of $224 per night, it combines a well-equipped gym and outdoor pool with road and mountain bike rentals, offering a variety of fitness and wellness opportunities.
Ultimately, the best rentals blend fitness facilities with wellness features in a way that feels natural. Choose a property that enhances your vacation by seamlessly integrating these elements into its overall design and atmosphere.
Conclusion
Private gyms in luxury rentals are transforming the way travelers approach wellness. Combining convenience, privacy, and top-tier equipment, these spaces make sticking to fitness routines feel effortless. With wellness tourism projected to grow into a $1.4 trillion market by 2027, these amenities are no longer just a perk – they’re becoming a must-have for travelers seeking a holistic experience.
Wellness-focused travelers are also willing to spend more. On average, international wellness tourists shell out $1,764 per trip, while domestic travelers spend $668. This financial commitment highlights a growing trend: vacations are no longer just about relaxation – they’re about rejuvenation and self-improvement.
"Today, people look at vacation differently…it’s a time to pause, be healthier, and learn. When we go away, we want to improve and leave better than we came." – Anna Bjurstam, wellness pioneer for Six Senses Spas and Wellness
The appeal of private gyms goes beyond the numbers. They offer flexibility, allowing you to work out on your own schedule, and provide the exclusivity that luxury travelers expect. Add in the inspiration of a well-designed space, and you’ve got an experience that seamlessly integrates fitness into your lifestyle. Whether you’re looking for a rental with a private gym or one offering additional wellness features, the goal is to find a property that aligns with your needs.
To meet this demand, Essentialyfe specializes in curating premium properties with round-the-clock concierge services. By focusing on privacy, quality, and wellness integration, they connect travelers with rentals designed to enhance their overall experience.
When planning your next luxury getaway, remember: the best private gym isn’t just about having the latest equipment – it’s about how effortlessly it fits into your wellness journey. The right rental ensures fitness becomes a natural part of your vacation.
FAQs
What factors should I consider when booking a luxury vacation rental with a private gym?
When choosing a luxury vacation rental with a private gym, focus on privacy and comfort. A truly exclusive gym space should allow you to work out without interruptions, offering the kind of discretion high-end travelers often seek.
Take a close look at the equipment and its variety. Whether your routine includes cardio, weightlifting, or yoga, the gym should cater to your fitness preferences. It’s also a good idea to see if the gym is situated near other amenities like pools or spa areas, adding convenience and elevating your overall experience.
By keeping these details in mind, you can enjoy a luxurious getaway that keeps your fitness goals on track.
How do private gyms in luxury vacation rentals enhance the wellness experience for guests?
Private gyms in luxury vacation rentals bring a whole new level of convenience and comfort to staying active while traveling. Guests can stick to their fitness routines – whether it’s lifting weights, running on the treadmill, or practicing yoga – without ever stepping outside the property. It’s all about having the freedom to work out on your terms, in complete privacy.
These gyms create a serene, stress-free atmosphere where guests can focus on their health without the usual distractions of a public fitness center. By combining wellness with relaxation, they add a sense of balance to the vacation experience, blending indulgence with a commitment to self-care.
What types of premium equipment and features can you expect in private gyms at luxury vacation rentals?
Private gyms in luxury vacation rentals are often equipped with high-end fitness gear tailored for travelers who prioritize their health. You’ll typically find commercial-grade cardio machines like treadmills, Peloton bikes, and rowing machines. Many also feature specialized equipment such as Pilates reformers and interactive fitness mirrors, adding variety to your workout options.
Some properties take it a step further with smart weights and cutting-edge fitness technology, making it easier to track and optimize your sessions. To top it off, many rentals provide access to personal trainers or on-demand fitness programs, offering a custom and hassle-free way to maintain your fitness routine while on vacation.
