Fitness in Siem Reap: Best Gyms Near the Temples
Most visitors come to Siem Reap for the temples, but the town itself has a growing fitness scene. I have spent months here and found that staying active is actually quite easy if you can handle the heat. Whether you want a gritty local gym or a high end air conditioned space, there are options that will not break the bank.
The gym scene
Angkor Muscle Gym is the place I go when I want a real workout. It is an old school, open air gym located near the center. It has plenty of free weights and a very welcoming atmosphere. Most of the people here are locals, and you will see serious lifters working out alongside tourists. It is cheap, usually around 1 or 2 dollars for a day pass. Just be prepared to sweat.
If you need air conditioning, SuperFit Fitness and Health is your best bet. It is more modern and has a better range of cardio machines. It is located a bit further from the Pub Street area, but it is worth the trip if the humidity is getting to you. A day pass here is around 5 dollars. For something even more upscale, Lotus Fitness at the Lotus Blanc Resort offers a quieter experience with a nice pool attached.
Local training culture
Fitness in Cambodia is very social. If you head down to the riverfront at sunset, you will see hundreds of people doing group aerobics to loud pop music. It is a great way to see the local side of the city. You can join in for a very small fee, usually less than 1 dollar. People are friendly and it is a lot of fun. It is much more authentic than a hotel gym.
Prices and practicalities
Cambodia uses the US Dollar alongside the Cambodian Riel. Most gyms will list prices in dollars. Expect to pay between 1 and 5 dollars for a daily visit. If you are staying for a month, memberships usually range from 20 to 50 dollars. Most places do not require a long term contract, which is perfect for digital nomads. I usually just pay cash on the day to keep things simple.
Bike-ability for cardio
I always tell people to rent a bicycle in Siem Reap. The town is completely flat and the roads are easy to navigate. Cycling to the temples in the morning is a fantastic way to get your cardio in while seeing the sights. The ride from town to Angkor Wat is about 6 or 7 kilometers. It is a beautiful route, especially if you go early before the tour buses start moving. Just make sure to stay hydrated because the sun is intense even at 8 am. The breeze while you ride is often the only cooling you will get.
Conclusion
Siem Reap is more than just a gateway to ruins. It is a place where you can easily keep up your fitness routine. Between the local lifting spots and the sunrise bike rides, you will have no trouble staying active during your stay.
