Did you miss out on bikini season this summer and fancy getting back into shape, but haven’t got the willpower to do so? Then you might benefit from a fitness retreat!
Don’t worry, fitness retreats are not boot camps for weight loss, they are relaxing escapes from day to day life, with some fitness regimes thrown into the itinerary that is designed to motivate your to get back on your fitness journey.
Fitness retreats take you away from the distractions of daily life where there’s no excuse to give up on your fitness goals, and with the help of experienced instructors, you can take the necessary steps to improve your overall health and fitness.
Bali is a place that embodies good vibes only, so if there’s ever a somewhere that would inspire you to meet your goals – it’s Bali. With breathtaking nature and volcanic landscapes, this Indonesian island is bound to inspire you.
But fitness retreats are becoming incredibly popular, and finding the best one is no easy task. That’s where this guide comes in. If you don’t know what to look for or how to choose the right retreat for you, this guide to fitness retreats in Bali is all you will need.
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Why Should You Consider a Fitness Retreat in Bali?
In a world where overworking is seen as a badge of honor, it is very easy to fall into a variety of unhealthy habits, such as binge-watching Netflix and eating fast food instead of cooking. It’s easy to fall into a routine, and when you’re struggling to find the motivation to get out of it, where do you look?
Taking a vacation away from your daily routine is exactly what you need. By embarking on a fitness retreat, you’ll get to explore Bali in a way different from a regular vacation, as they combine fitness classes and exploring in a seamless manner.
Going on a fitness retreat means you get help from professionals, whether your goal is to lose weight or just get back into a routine – nothing is better than learning from the experts. You’ll not only have fitness classes, but you’ll learn about healthy eating habits and maybe even cooking skills and sleep improvement techniques too.
Shaping is fun on a fitness retreat because you get to meet like-minded people who are also on their own fitness journey. You’re surrounded by people who will support and empower you. You get the chance to discover new programs, get inspired by your surroundings, and see the beautiful places in Bali.
Sounds good, right?
What Can You Expect from a Fitness Retreat in Bali
When life gets busy, it can often lead to body-related stress and pressures, among many other things. Fret not as Bali has plenty of fitness retreats that can help get you on the path to better health and wholeness.
Bali fitness retreats are diverse but there are a few things that all retreats have in common, such as experienced instructors, tailored meal plans, Balinese massages, state-of-the-art facilities, and offering a bunch of excursions to some of Bali’s top attractions.
Some may even provide detox juices while you sweat and shed those extra pounds off. It’s all about healthy living when you go on a fitness retreat in Bali, and a few even have workshops where you get to meet a nutritionist to help you put together a meal plan and achieve your goals.
Some fitness retreats also tend to be specialized, meaning they cater to a certain group of people. You have fitness retreats for water lovers which include surfing, diving, and other water sports, and you can also find retreats that are more focused on detoxification.
Whatever your fitness goal is, with the wide range of beautiful gyms in Bali, you’re bound to find something that suits all your needs. There is no better time than now to be a healthier, fitter, and happier version of yourself.
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How to Choose the Right Fitness Retreat in Bali for You
As mentioned previously, fitness retreats abound in Bali and this only highlights the importance of choosing the right one for your needs. The number of fitness retreats can leave you overwhelmed and confused so you need to think about what you’re looking for carefully before you make a decision.
Ask yourself what exactly is your fitness goal. Are you looking to get rid of extra pounds, or do you just want a toned body? Do you just want to get back into a healthy routine? Or are you thinking you would prefer a more relaxing retreat with a few fitness elements? The answer to these questions will largely determine what to look for.
Spend time thinking about your goals and what you want to get out of the retreat. After that, you have some more practical considerations to choose from…
Location
…such as where you stay in Bali. Luckily for you, Bali is an island with immense natural beauty and wherever you go, you’re sure to be greeted by spectacular sights. The luscious tropical landscape is not only pleasing to the eye; its serenity will calm your soul.
If you’d like to get it while participating in a variety of water sports and activities, you should choose a fitness retreat in Nusa Lembongan, Canggu, or Kuta.
If you’d rather see the rice fields and verdant greens while working out, you should opt for retreats in Ubud and Tegalalang.
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Practices
The Balinese follow a form of Hinduism known as Agama Hindu Dharma and their culture and religion impact every aspect of life on the island. This is just one of the many things that make fitness retreats on the island truly unique.
Bali, among many things, is famous for its local traditions too. The ‘Balian’ or traditional healer is someone who you will encounter in fitness and wellness retreats on the island. They are said to heal physical and mental afflictions through spiritual knowledge and energy.
Anyone that goes to Bali has come across Balinese massage. It is a deep-tissue, full-body, and holistic treatment that uses a combination of reflexology, acupressure, gentle stretches, and aromatherapy to stimulate oxygen, blood flow, and ‘qi’ or energy around your body. It includes a few techniques such as kneading and stroking, skin rolling, and pressure point stimulation combined with essential oils.
Watukaru yoga is another common health and fitness practice on the island. It is an ancient and traditional form of yoga that has been practiced by the Balinese people for decades. It is a combination of cleansing mudras, sound meditation, holy mantras, and Hatha yoga. It is deeply relaxing and rejuvenating. Meditation is a huge part of Balinese culture and has influenced a lot of great meditation retreats in Bali.
Price
The price point is one of the most important considerations when it comes to choosing fitness retreats but it shouldn’t be the only factor when it comes to making a decision.
There’s a variety of reasons that can make a retreat out of your budget and some of the most common are the accommodation, duration, and location of the retreat.
The more lavish the accommodation is, the more you can expect to pay. If you’re thinking of a private Bali villa in your retreat, then expect to pay more for it. Most of the time, the more isolated the retreat location is, the steeper the price.
The same thing goes for the duration because the longer the retreat takes; the more money you can expect to spend too.
Perks
Going on a fitness retreat hardly means working out from sun up to sun down. Of course, you need time to unwind, rest, and do your favorite activities.
Fitness retreats often offer a bevy of perks alongside its main fitness offering, to give you a break and also allow you to explore some of the island. Some of the perks include spa treatments and a variety of massages to pamper your aching body and heal your sore muscles.
A few excursions and a variety of activities are guaranteed to be included in your itinerary, and you can also expect to be offered temple tours, surfing, hiking, diving, water rafting, cooking classes, and even Balinese language lessons.
It’s important to pick a fitness retreat that offers the activities you love, such as sightseeing, so you can make good use of your breaks and free time.
Duration
Bali fitness retreats cater to people of all schedules, so you need not fear if you only have a limited amount of time to spare in achieving your fitness goals.
You can go on a retreat that lasts as short as 3 days or you can join a fitness retreat that lasts as long as a month. It’s really all down to how much time you can free up on your schedule.
Dedicating a longer time to a fitness retreat gives you the opportunity to learn healthy habits, boost your health, make changes within yourself, get away from technology, and focus on your workouts.
However short retreats can also be really intensive, so don’t think you won’t come away having achieved anything in three days.
The Top 10 Fitness Retreats in Bali
By now you probably have a good understanding of what to expect from fitness retreats in Bali. So here are the 10 best retreats for you…
Best Overall Fitness Retreat in Bali – 8 Days Martial Arts, Surf, & Yoga
- Price: From $637
- Location: Canggu, Indonesia
Nestled between the rice fields of Canggu and the beach, Mondo Surf & Lifestyle Village is only a stone’s throw away from some of the best surf spots in Bali.
Suitable for martial arts enthusiasts of all levels and even newbies, this fitness retreat provides coaching so you can develop your grappling, and stand-up skills and of course, have an amazing workout session for that healthy body.
Each day starts with a yoga session in the morning and you can choose between once or twice daily yoga. You’ll be practicing a combination of Ashtanga style with Vinyasa flows. After which, you’ll participate in surfing lessons and Muay Thai and chill out in the afternoon.
During the retreat, you’ll be served seven healthy breakfasts made from Indonesian and international menus.
Best Cultural Fitness Retreat in Bali – 4 Days Hot Spring Mountain Retreat w/ Yoga
- Price: From $270
- Location: Tabanan, Bali, Indonesia
Baligrass Retreat is in a spiritual village away from the hustle and bustle of Bali’s touristy locations. Located close to Mount Watukaru, the retreat is only 30 minutes away from Tabanan City.
This unique fitness program combines getting fit and healthy with laidback barbecue on the beach, traditional Watukaru yoga, daily excursions to various places of interest such as Batukaru Mountain Temple, Penatahan Hot Spring, and a local waterfall, and an introduction to Balinese culture.
A few other activities included making traditional herbal drinks, Balinese language lessons, and making coconut oil and Hindu offerings.
During this retreat, you’ll stay in a homestay or bungalow type of accommodation in a village surrounded by rice paddy farmlands.
Best Spa Retreat in Bali – 4 Day Inner Awakening Yoga, Culture and Spa Retreat
- Price: From $239
- Location: Tabanan, Bali, Indonesia
Reset your mind and body with a full body detox, connect with yourself to a deeper level, de-stress and recharge with this yoga and fitness retreat in Bali.
The Balitrees retreat program has a schedule of daily activities but participation is not compulsory. You can expect morning daily yoga classes, mediation sessions, and cultural activities to enjoy more of the island’s spiritual vibe.
Wholesome, abundant, and delicious nutritious food is served daily, all made from local produce. This is one fun fitness retreat, if you ask me!
Best Fitness Retreat Near the Beach – 4 Days Surf and Yoga Retreat
- Price: From $362
- Location: Nusa Lembongan, Bali, Indonesia
Nestled in Lembongan, Isla Indah Retreat is within walking distance of one of the best beaches in Bali and has various activity centers.
Surfers and yoga enthusiasts of all levels are welcome to participate in the program. With the small groups in surfing classes, you’re guaranteed to have the expert attention you need. They also have an evolution program for beginners and intermediate surfers.
In addition, you can look forward to 3 yoga and meditation classes accessible to every level and tailored especially for surfers.
Healthy vegetarian and vegan meals are available throughout the retreat at Pisang-Pisang Restaurant, as well as unique smoothies and juices. However, only 3 daily breakfasts and water are included in the package.
The program also includes an excursion in the form of a snorkeling trip with manta rays.
Long-Stay Fitness Retreat in Bali – 23 Day Yoga Retreat, Self Awareness and Emotional Healing
- Price: From $2,678
- Location: Lovina, Bali, Indonesia
Located in the scenic town of Lovina, this retreat is far from the crowds of the south in the northern-most part of the island.
You’ll be spending 3 weeks showered with the warmth of the local people while you rejuvenate both your mind and your body.
You’ll be joining an authentic cultural experience that involves yoga, numerology readings, and sound healing, as well as workshops, one-on-ones and personal development. When you aren’t at the retreat you can be snorkelling, seeing dolphins and exploring more of the area.
In line with getting fit, you’ll be served a healthy diet with food that’s considered medicine. To keep you fuelled and energised, the dining will be one of your favourite parts of the retreat.
You’ll enjoy your time so much that you just might stay longer.
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View on Booking.comBest Fitness Retreat for Women – 5 Day Feminine Way Private Tantra & Yoga Retreat
- Price: From $1,111
- Location: Ubud, Bali, Indonesia
This retreat is perfect for solo female travelers. With no set schedule, you have the flexibility and the freedom to create a week your heart desires.
A luxurious one-on-one experience, everything will be catered to you and your needs. There will be healing yoga sessions, morning chats, mindset work, and practical tips for caring for yourself and accepting your body.
The healthy, vegan, macrobiotic meals are prepared fresh and onsite for breakfast and lunch. With beautiful accommodations, or the option to stay elsewhere if you already have a place to stay arranged, this is one of the best retreats for those who like to do their own thing.
Best Fitness Retreat for Solo Travelers – 7 Days Yoga, Surf & Photography
- Price: From $617
- Location: Canggu Beach, Bali, Indonesia
A unique surf and yoga retreat located between the rice fields and the beach of Bali, this retreat mixes photography, yoga, martial arts, and surfing.
From the moment you open your eyes in the morning until the sun sets, you can look forward to activity-filled days.
Photography classes will include frequent trips to several beautiful locations such as local markets, rice fields, sunsets, beaches, and local markets.
Yoga classes are in the morning and your body and mind will be awakened with a combination of Vinyasa flows and Ashtanga style. The class is adapted according to the level of practice so it doesn’t matter if you are a newbie or an advanced yogi.
A healthy breakfast follows the yoga class where a variety of fresh fruits and fruit bowls are served. Lunch and dinner at the restaurant comprise Indonesian and international cuisines with fresh coconuts and juices.
Best Fitness Retreat for Couples – 7 Day Pure Active Fitness Holiday & Culture Experience
- Price: From $1,231
- Location: Ubud, Bali, Indonesia
Bring along your partner for a fitness retreat in Bali that will get you up and moving.
With a fun 7 days of activities, exercise, great food and fun. You will have your own private room together in the shared villa as well as added luxuries like massages and juices.
Meals will be served every day with high protein, nutrient rich foods to keep your body energised and ready for a day of fitness and excursions. For first time visitors to Bali you will get the chance to explore while also joining the classes laid out by the organisers.
Best Fitness Retreat for Nature Lovers – 3 Day Fit Getaway in Nature
- Price: From $354
- Location: South Ubud, Bali, Indonesia
One Fit Wellness hosts this fitness retreat in Bali that incorporates lots of nature, activities and excursions. It is a great short retreat for those who want to fit in an organised experience to their Bali holiday.
Enjoy cycling, trekking, massages, delicious homemade food and a villa accommodation.
You can exercise, explore and get to know more about the island from the local organisers and assistants. Super flexible and friendly, this 3 day option is ideal for a first time retreater in Bali.
Best Fitness Retreat for Families – 8 Days Family Surf & Yoga
- Price: From $3,026
- Location: Canggu, Bali, Indonesia
Grab this opportunity for the whole family to get fit and have a surf holiday at the same time.
This program also includes a trip to Tanah Lot temple, guided meditation sessions, culinary classes in authentic Balinese cuisine, and relaxing Balinese massages.
Located in Canggu, you’ll be surrounded by hipsters, artists, surfers, and vacationers of all kinds. Canggu is popular for its waves, surf lifestyle, and nightlife.
Daily delicious breakfast and homemade Indonesian lunches from Monday to Friday are included in the retreat.
A variety of tours, trips, and activities can be booked for an additional fee such as cycling around Ubud, jewelry-making classes, and spa treatments.
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Final Thoughts on Fitness Retreats in Bali
Bali, without a doubt, is one of the most magical places on Earth. From the majestic temples, surfing havens, amazing waterfalls, and rich culture, there is no better place to get fit and healthy.
Whether you have a few days or a few weeks, a thousand dollars or a couple of hundreds, you can get your heart rate up and get fit – then you should definitely consider a fitness retreat in Bali.
Whichever retreat you choose, these fitness retreats will get you eating right, being mindful of the things you do, sweating and working on your fitness, and come out of it a better version of yourself.
There is no better time than now to start your fitness journey.
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