Fitness & Health – BKK Families

Finding fitness in Bangkok is just like finding fitness in any other city…only much more difficult! Don’t worry, though. For all of the obstacles that this city presents, there are just as many options to get up, over or around them!

So that we can hopefully end on a high note, lets start with the negatives first.

Fitness in Bangkok – The negatives

#1.) It’s hot! Getting outside for a 5k or 10k run in Bangkok City can be difficult- even dangerous! With temperatures from 35 to even 40 degrees Centigrade, you need to remember to stay hydrated. The sun is also brutal, so try to at least keep your head covered if you plan on being outside for an extended period of time.

#2.) Adding to the heat, traffic from trucks, cars and motorcycles can make exercising outside even more tricky and sticky! We do not recommend running on the main roads of Bangkok if you can avoid it.

#3.) Soi (street) dogs can give you a ruff time. They are known to bite joggers, and that would mean multiple trips to a Bangkok hospital to get your shots (and that’s if you’re one of the lucky ones)!

Bangkok soi dog bite

There are some more negatives to outdoor fitness in Bangkok, but I think those are the main ones the first come to everyone’s mind. Now, for every problem there is a solution, right? So let’s get to them.

BANGKOK INDOOR FITNESS AREAS

These can be your best friend when you’re trying to shed some pounds in the Big Mango. Most new condos have fitness spaces and some are also equipped with swimming pools. If you’re looking for more organized training along with coaches and personal trainers in Bangkok, there are many options.

1.) The Movement Playground: With two locations at Sukhumvit Soi 69 and Mega Bangna, the Movement Playground is located close to where many expat families in Bangkok live. The activities are geared towards family fun to promote health and fitness. Coaches help students of all ages learn about obstacle races, circuit training, Parkour adventures and even “Ninja Kids!”

2.) Bounce!: The name says…most of it! With hundreds of square meters of trampolines, big bean bags, wall climbing and obstacle courses, this should leave the kids (and mom and dad) ready for a nap. They even offer company trainings, so check them out to see what they offer.

3.) BASE Bangkok: Not as kid friendly as the first two, BASE Bangkok if focused on keeping mom and dad in good shape, no questioning that! They focus on HIIT and weight training for all levels. With three locations in Thong Lor, Sathorn and Amarin, hopefully there is a BASE near you.

BANGKOK OUTDOOR FITNESS AREAS

You will see many of these across the city. Typically in parks or in larger communities called moo baans, there will be outdoor equipment that anyone is allowed to use. Fitness in Bangkok is becoming more and more popular as people are learning about the benefits.

Bangkok outdoor fitness
Bangkok Outdoor Fitness

These aren’t high quality machines by most people’s standards, but they do serve their purpose. If you’re like me, it’s a nice feeling to do fitness while outside (unless it is incredibly hot)! Many of these areas are given natural shade by trees, and it’s a better area to socialize in. You might even learn some Thai while meeting some of the local fitness enthusiasts!

Some of the more well known parks for this are Lumpini Park and Rama 9 Park. These parks are quite large. Lumpini Park is conveniently located downtown, but it can get a bit crowded. Rama 9 park is a bit farther out from Bangkok’s central business district, but it is well worth a visit. It’s gardens are well kept, and it’s a great place for a jog or for a walk with the family.

Rama 9 Park

There are also plenty of dance classes, martial arts schools and sports clubs across Bangkok and Thailand. Typically the best place to ask about these are at your children’s school, though many international schools in Bangkok will have lots of great extra-curricular activities.

Any way you can, keep yourself and the family in good physical shape while in the City of Angels!

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