Training with a view: Discover the best rooftop gyms in Bangkok.
Bangkok is a city defined by its skyline. While there are plenty of basement gyms and local iron shops, there is something much more motivating about training while looking out over the city. Most of the best rooftop gyms are found in high-end hotels. Fortunately, many of these spots offer day passes for people who are not staying as guests. If you want to escape the street-level heat and humidity, these five gyms are some of my favorite places to train.
1. AvaniFit at Avani+ Riverside Bangkok
Most people stick to the Sukhumvit side of the river, but the view from the Thonburi side is actually better for seeing the whole skyline. AvaniFit is located on the 26th floor. It is a large, bright space with floor-to-ceiling windows that look directly over the Chao Phraya River. I like this spot because it feels open and airy. They have a good selection of Technogym machines and enough free weights for a proper session. The best part is the rooftop pool deck right outside the door, where you can see the city lights come on if you train in the evening.
2. The Standard Gym at The Standard, Bangkok Mahanakhon
The Mahanakhon building is the one that looks like it has pixels missing from the side. Inside, the gym on the 15th floor is just as stylish. It is not your typical boring hotel gym. The decor is colorful and the equipment is top-of-the-line, including Peloton bikes which are quite rare to find in Thailand. They even have a terrace for outdoor functional training. The view looks straight down into the Silom business district. It is a busy, energetic view that matches a high-intensity workout.
3. WestinWORKOUT at The Westin Grande Sukhumvit
The Westin is located right at the Asok intersection, which is one of the busiest spots in Bangkok. The gym is on the 8th floor. It is not the highest floor on this list, but the view is fascinating. You are positioned right above the BTS Skytrain tracks. Watching the trains and the traffic below while you are on the treadmill is strangely addictive. A day pass here usually gives you access to the pool and sauna too, which makes it a good deal for a full afternoon of recovery.
4. Park Hyatt Bangkok Fitness Center
If you want a workout that feels more like a spa visit, go to the Park Hyatt at Central Embassy. The fitness center is on the 9th floor. It looks out over the gardens of the former British Embassy and the modern towers of Phloen Chit. It is a very quiet, minimalist space. You won't find crowds here, and the equipment is all very high quality. It is a great place to clear your head and focus on your training without distractions.
5. StayBridge Suites Bangkok Thonglor
Thonglor is the neighborhood where most expats and trendy locals hang out. The gym at StayBridge Suites is on the 20th floor and offers a great view of the Sukhumvit 55 area. It is a bit smaller than the others, but it has a wrap-around window that lets in a lot of light. The atmosphere is more relaxed and less formal than the big luxury hotels in Silom. It is a solid choice if you are staying in the Thonglor area and want a quick workout with a nice backdrop.
Practical Tips for Training in Bangkok
Expect to pay between 500 and 1,200 Thai Baht for a day pass at these locations. Many of them include access to the pool, which is a lifesaver in the Bangkok heat. I recommend checking our Bangkok finder or calling ahead to see if they have any current promotions. Most places provide towels and water, so you just need to bring your gear.
Training with a view definitely makes those last few reps easier. These spots prove that you can keep up with your fitness goals while enjoying one of the best views in Southeast Asia.
