3 July 2021
When you’re not ashore exploring, there are plenty of ways to stay fit and active aboard ship, from incredible classes and activities to dance sessions, jogging trails and deck treks.
While the whole “gain 2lbs a day on a cruise” is something of an urban legend,there is no denying that cruise ships are synonymous with relaxation and culinary indulgence. However modern liners are increasingly dedicating more space to gyms, and fitness amenities outfitting them with state-of-the-art equipment - from Kinesis walls, Pilates reformers and Zumba studios to high-tech cardio equipment with video screens attached. There are also plenty of alternatives for health-seekers that don’t enjoy the gym, from celebrity-led fitness classes to guidedstrolls around the deck neither of which involve a dumbbell.
Strengthening, calming and energisingfitness choices include yoga and toning while on deck classes make the most of the wraparound promenade. If a dip is more your thing, then splashing through a few lengths of the pool will do the trick. Aqua aerobic sessions and poolside HIT are other options with a growing number of cruise ship simulators providing a virtual golf course at sea.
For the traditionalists, there are usually shuffleboard and deck quoits right out of the nostalgic golden age of cruising. Feeling more physical? Then head to the sports court for a game of fast-paced tennis or to shoot somehoops. Some ships run spinning classes that benefit from expansive views across the front of the ship - a welcome distraction from thigh burn and sweat!You can swing a kettlebell, hop on a cross-trainer or enjoy a one-on-one workout session with your very own PT.
Looking for something more fun? Some cruise ships are equipped with a surf simulator that is great for core strength and balance.Other options could be rock-climbing walls, tango or salsa dancing, fencing or making use of the running track that every cruise ship has on deck.Few jogsare as enjoyable as those on a cruise vessel when the sun is coming up or going down.Slower paced circuits are often offered as a ‘Deck Trek’ to allow a fabulous walk-and-talk on a backdrop of sparkling seain an activity that mixes socialising with gentle exertion.
Cruise companies have responded to requests for healthy food choices in recent years by offering vegetarian, vegan, low-fat, gluten-free and sugar-free options in their main dining rooms – and there are now plenty more juice bars onboard too. Many even have menus that contain the calories for each menu item, which are available on request if you really are determined not to pile on a pound.
