5 Great Fitness Holiday Destination Ideas

If you've decided that a fitness holiday is the best option for you or are looking for inspiration, take a look at some of the available options worldwide and closer to home. Fitness holidays can be a great option for solo travellers, as well as for couples and friends travelling together.

Martial Arts in Thailand

Thailand is the home of beautiful beaches and the National Sport of Muay Thai. Wherever you travel you will find Muay Thai gyms and the locals are extremely passionate about sharing their sport. The more experienced traveller can turn up directly to Thai gyms and take part in daily classes, with most offering training in 2 hour morning and evening sessions to avoid the heat of the day.

For those wanting a fully organised fitness break there are numerous Western-owned companies (Tiger Muay Thai, Phuket or Diamond Muay Thai, Koh Phagnan) that will provide an all-inclusive package including training, accommodation, food and airport transfers—all you have to arrange are your flights. These packages also tend to provide other training options, such as circuit classes and beach workouts to really make the most of your experience.

Cycling in Croatia

Croatia’s Istrian coast showcases some of the bluest waters in Europe, and what better way to experience the views than via a coastal cycling tour. Travellers can choose whether to travel as part of a group or to do a self-guided tour, with both options providing accommodation at set intervals along the way from Pula to Porec.

Routes are selected dependent on experience and fitness levels, but all promise the beauty of bustling harbour towns, quaint villages and some of Europe’s most beautiful architecture in UNESCO heritage sites. Bikes are provided locally and all luggage is transported in support vehicles along the way, so all you need to bring along are your cycling shorts and legs!

Surfs Up in Morocco

There are waves a plenty in Morocco, and with the best surf season being October to March you can escape the UK winter for some amazing surf in the sun. Novices can attend a surf school for daily lessons taught by European and Moroccan instructors. Companies such as Morocco Surf Holiday in Taghazout provide all-inclusive local cuisine, with special menus (e.g., vegetarian, allergy, etc.) available. Accommodation can be anything from surf house dormitories to hotels, dependent on your budget. So grab a board and hit the waves!

Horse Riding in Spain

Whether an equine companion is part of your daily life or you are a total novice wishing to try a new activity, a horse riding holiday could be the one for you. Companies like inthesaddle.com provide options for all experience levels. The Costa Bravo provides the perfect location as you ride along beautiful beaches and through unspoiled villages, all against the backdrop of the Pyrenees.

Between 4-6 hours a day are spent on horseback, interspersed with picnics in the mountains and gourmet Catalan meals prepared by private chefs. Accommodation along the way comes in the form of country guest houses and family-run hotels to give you a true taste of Spain.

Fitness Boot Camps in the UK

Want to stay closer to home, or only have a few days to spare? Then a UK based break could be the one for you. There are options across the country providing weekend breaks or longer trips that pack a real punch. If exercise based fitness is more your thing then why not indulge in a boot camp style break in the North. A week can include everything from circuit classes and boxing to cycle rides and Pilates, all under the supervision of expert personal trainers.

Relaxation and recovery are also taken seriously with 'Northern Bootcamp', which is why luxury accommodation, chef cooked meals, nutrition classes and spa treatments are included in the price. Breaks range from one day tasters to 14 day courses, so there is an option to suit a variety of budgets at a competitive price.

Whichever option you choose be sure to buy a good travel insurance policy to help protect against the financial impact of a holiday mishap—. A travel insurance policy can cost as little as £10, depending on factors like your destination, length of trip, age and health history.