The State tends to be ahead of the curve
when it comes to wellness, so where better for a holiday with a fitness fix?
Miami is renowned for its beautiful beaches, art deco architecture and great
nightlife, but it’s also the place for healthy living – where the rich and
famous mingle with the fitness focused to get in South Beach shape.
Welcome
To Miami
Mind, body and soul
If you want to rejuvenate inside and out,
head to Canyon Ranch Hotel & Spa in Miami Beach. Surrounded by like-minded
folk – everyone was walking around in gym gear as they headed from one class to
the next – it’s the perfect place to crank your fitness up a notch, chill out
in the beautiful spa, or cleanse your system with the tailored nutrition plans.
Canyon
ranch’s spa is a haven of water-based experiences
I love gym classes but I have to admit, it
takes quite a lot to wow me these days. Canyon Ranch’s programme, however, is
impressive. Classes run from 7am to 7pm, sometimes with four or five options on
offer at the same time, in different studios. My favorite was the Live DJ
Aerobics in the Ocean Studio – and yes, that’s an open-air studio overlooking
the beach! There’s so much to choose from no one will be left wanting, from
Buff Ballet and power to salsa and Burdenko Water (a balance-boosting workout,
for the uninitiated).
But it’s not all about classes – the gym
facilities are top-notch, plus there are four swimming pools and the
on-your-doorstep beach to keep you busy! Prefer something more adventurous? The
indoor rock wall means you can get the hang of climbing with the help of expert
trainers.
A learning experience
If you’re after a real overhaul, Canyon
Ranch offers a chance to make lasting changes through its workshops. From
boosting your skin health to your relationships, there’s a whole range of
courses designed to help you whip your body – and life – into shape. The resort
takes a holistic approach to wellness, combining expert advice and a health
centre with a deluxe spa and fitness facility – and a largely organic and
locally sourced menu at its restaurants. It also offers tailored holiday
packages to cater to needs such as stress relief, weight loss and pain.
If that all sounds like too much hard work,
don’t fret – there’s plenty of scope for blog-standard relaxing at Canyon
Ranch! The luxurious suites are the ideal place to unwind after a busy day in
the gym or exploring South Beach. And the spa (the biggest in Florida) das an
exhaustive meny of treatments to match, plus steam rooms, thermal suites,
soaking tubs, and – wait for it – an igloo!
A different pace
If the party atmosphere of South Beach
isn’t for you, there are plenty of other areas with a much more chilled-out
vibe. Aventura, north of Miami Beach, is perfect for kicking back and enjoying
some sport. Turnberry Isle Miami, nestled in 300 acres of lush greenery, is
well known for its epic golf course: the stunning grounds host tournaments and
offer expert tuition.
If you’re a tennis fan, Turnberry Isle will
tick every box. The hotel has teamed up with Canas Tennis, which provides
tuition from players ranked in the top 10 for doubles and singles, so it’s the
perfect place to reinvigorate ant Wimbledon ambitions.
Canyon
Ranch takes yoga to the pool, while Turnberry Isle’s golf course (above left)
boasts impressive views. Miami’s art deco district (above right) is a highlight
After all the exertion, refueling is key
and Turnberry Isle’s Bourbon Steak restaurant is the ideal place for a protein
fix. The steak is cooked to perfection and complemented by mouth-watering sides
– it’s worth working out all day to eat here! But, the healthy options are no
afterthought, either. The kitchen is stocked with fresh produce from the chef’s
own garden, so lighter meals are just as impressive.
Being that little bit further from downtown
Miami makes Turnberry Isle a great place to escape life for a while. Lounge
around in the poolside cabanas then hit the spa or simply enjoy your spacious
room – I managed to devise a complete workout circuit in mine!
Healthy living
There’s no fear of boredom in Miami. If
you’re a water baby, head to Biscayne Bay for every water sport imaginable;
runners should hit the beach path for a really invigorating morning session
before the sun heats up; and cyclists can hire a DecoBike to explore the city –
it’s a great way to get around. While you’re out and about there are plenty of
fresh and healthy dining options, but my favorite had to be Area 31 with its
glamorous rooftop lounge – it’s the perfect spot for lunch or sundowner drinks.
Health balance? Achieved.
