Fit and Fab
Stay healthy and happy while on holiday in St. Maarten/St. Martin.
Whether you want to get fit or you’ve worked hard to stay fit being on holiday can sometimes alter your fitness routine.
But there’s no need to worry. As a personal trainer from Holland who has lived here for 15 years, I can assure you that there are many opportunities on this beautiful island to stay fit, healthy and happy.
It’s important to keep your fitness training going, even while you’re away from home, because it prevents you from losing the progress you’ve already made and it can help your body better deal with the changes you encounter. If you’re concerned that you might hinder your progress as you indulge a little, there’s no need to fret. You can stay fit and enjoy some much-deserved time off.
Many hotels offer pools or fitness centers, so you can keep your cardio activity alive by taking an early-morning dip or hitting a stair-climber. If you’re staying somewhere without these options, you can also head outside for a nice beach walk, a hike in the hills or possibly a bike ride. If you like water sports, then you are at the right place. Waterskiing, canoeing, kitesurfing, jet-skiing and sailing are options you’ll find at several beaches.
If your hotel does not have a gym, Princess Country Club at Port de Plaisance would be an option. You’ll find a fully equipped gym with swimming pool, tennis courts, spa and even a hair stylist. If you’re looking for something a bit more hardcore, go to Juliet’s Gym.
Fitness studios in St. Maarten/St. Martin are rare. Trainers at my business, Fitness Coaching, are very professional and also offer fun, high-impact classes. On Saturday mornings, Fitness Coaching offers boot camps on Kim Sha Beach for all levels, ages 12 and up. If you’re looking for a power walk, try the 220-foot-long causeway over Simpson Bay lagoon.
The island also offers many options for healthy eating. You can have food delivered to your doorstep. Fit Foods is a company that delivers great selections, including vegetarian and vegan offerings.
Desiree Winkel is the founder and owner of Fitness Coaching. Originally from Holland, she has lived in the Caribbean for 30 years and on beautiful St. Maarten for the past 15 years. She’s passionate about helping clients get fit and live a heathy lifestyle.