Recovering the right way: my favorite wellness spas in Bangkok

Training in the Bangkok heat is a different beast. Whether you've just finished a brutal Muay Thai session or a long run through Lumpini Park, your body is going to feel it. I’ve learned the hard way that you can only push yourself so far before you need to actually invest in recovery. I’ve spent a lot of time testing out everything from traditional Thai massages to sensory deprivation tanks to see what actually works. These are the places I head to when I’m feeling particularly beat up.

Yunomori Onsen & Spa

Yunomori was the first proper Japanese onsen to open in Thailand, and it is still my favorite for muscle recovery. They have locations in Sukhumvit 26 and Sathorn. The goal is to spend time soaking in different mineral pools to let your muscles relax. If your legs are feeling heavy, the "Soda Bath" is the one to try. The carbonated water helps with circulation. I also swear by the cold plunge pool. It stays around 16 degrees, and jumping between the hot water and the cold is the fastest way I’ve found to bring down inflammation.

Panpuri Wellness

If you want something that feels a bit more like a luxury treat, head to Panpuri Wellness at Gaysorn Tower. It is stunning, with an incredible view of the city from the onsen area. I usually go here for their Deep Tissue Massage. The therapists are incredibly professional and know exactly how to work out specific knots without it being a painful experience. It is the kind of place you go when you want to completely switch off your brain after a heavy week of training.

Float Center Bangkok

Floating is a bit of a weird experience the first time you do it, but it is one of the best things for your joints. At the Float Center Bangkok, you lie in a tank filled with Epsom salt water. You become completely weightless. It takes all the pressure off your back and your neck. It is especially helpful if you’re a runner or if you’ve been doing a lot of heavy lifting. The magnesium in the salts also helps with sleep, which is often the first thing to suffer when you're overtraining.

Let’s Relax Onsen and Spa

Located in Thong Lo, this spot is popular for a reason. It is clean, spacious, and has a great variety of pools, including a Silk Bath and a Whirlpool. The Whirlpool is excellent for getting a gentle water massage on sore areas. After a soak, I often book their Stretch Massage. It is essentially assisted yoga. It can be a bit intense if you're already tight, but it is incredibly effective for opening up your hips and shoulders.

A few recovery tips

Hydrate before and after. You lose more water in an onsen than you realize, especially after a workout.

Don't rush it. Start with the cooler pools and work your way up to the hotter ones. Your body needs a minute to adjust.

Book ahead. These places get very busy on weekends, especially in the late afternoons. A quick call or online booking will save you from waiting around when you're already tired.