What to Expect about Gyms in Ho Chi Minh

As the waistline goes up, Vietnamese get down and workout like never before. A dynamic city like Ho Chi Minh will never run out of fitness options for both local customers and international visitors. See below for what to expect about gyms in Ho Chi Minh City!

Pros Of Gyms In Ho Chi Minh City

1. Different types for everyone

We all have our preferences when it comes to keep-fit sessions, and details such as air-conditioning, hygiene and privacy can have significant effects. Thankfully, in Ho Chi Minh City, there are 3 types of gyms to accommodate you:

a. High-end Gyms

These are often located in shopping malls in Ho Chi Minh as well as fancy hotels. They come with modern equipment, excellent hygiene, top-notch service (including Jacuzzis, saunas, pools…) and ready-to-serve staff.

b. Local Gyms

These gyms can be found in small alleys and corners of the town. There is no add-on but they’ll give what you want: necessary equipment and help from time to time. Air-conditioning isn’t the best here so be prepared to sweat a lot.

c. Public Park Gyms

As long as your definition about gyms solely includes training equipment then these public park workout spaces sure pass the test for the cheapest gyms ever. They’re easy to find, easy to use and easy on your pocket since they’re free! Plus, you get to enjoy the fresh air and gorgeous views of public parks in Ho Chi Minh City.

Public park gyms are popular thanks to their accessibility and welcoming atmosphere

2. Reasonable price and high quality

In comparison to Western gyms, gyms in Ho Chi Minh City are cheap as chips. For a monthly membership, high-end gyms are under US$ 150, more affordable places land around US$ 30 – 50 and local gyms will cost you about US$ 7 – 15. For day passes, expect to pay under US$ 4.

For this price, you probably think it’s questionable, but in fact, gyms in Ho Chi Minh City are well-kept, have a good variety of work-out machines and staff who are willing to lend you a hand.

Cons Of Gyms In Ho Chi Minh City

1. Personal space

In Vietnam, personal space isn’t as highly regarded as in Western cultures. Under appropriate circumstances, it’s okay to touch others in a non-offensive way. Therefore, many tourists are surprised to find their trainers grab them by the hand and show them how things work, which can be uncomfortable.

2. Sanitation

Sanitation isn’t a problem in fancy gyms; however, in cheaper places, there are no janitors to wipe away sweat and give you cleaning wipes every once in a while.

Vietnamese generally have good hygiene but it’s not A+ in the gym

Good Gyms In Ho Chi Minh City To Visit

1. California Fitness and Yoga

Addresses:

District 1: Saigon Center, 65, Le Loi Street, Ben Nghe Ward
District 2: Thao Dien Pearl, 12, Quoc Huong Street, Thao Dien Ward

Opening hours: 6 AM – 10.30 PM

This reputable high-end brand has received lots of support from celebrities in Vietnam. The place offers various activities to choose from like yoga, dance, kick-fit…as well as professional personal trainers.

California Fitness and Yoga center in Phu Nhuan District

2. MMA Gym Fitness Center

Address: 285, Vo Van Tan Street, Ward 5, District 5
Opening hours: 6 AM – 9 PM
This gym is one of the most famous climbing gyms in Ho Chi Minh City. MMA offers you many choices such as Muay Thai, rock-climbing, kick-boxing…

MMA gym activities

3. Luna Gym and Spa

Address: 117, Bui Vien Street, District 1
Opening hours: 7 AM – 10 PM

Luna is in Bui Vien Street in Backpackers' District, so it’s extra-convenient for foreigners. The place has A+ equipment and amenities, along with helpful, English-speaking staff.

Luna gym is small but it’s bright and clean

4. Vesco Gym

Address: 350, Au Duong Lan Street, Ward 3, District 8
Opening hours: 6 AM – 8 PM

This gym is quite far from the city center. However, its price is one of the cheapest, regarding the excellent quality. One reminder is that it has no AC, so expect to sweat buckets.

Vesco gym in district 8 is quite crowded so it’s better to avoid the rush hour

5. Toan Thang Gym

Address: 210/4 – 210/6, Cach Mang Thang Tam Street, Ward 10, District 3
Opening hours: 6 AM – 9 PM

Toan Thang Gym has been in the papers on its excellent quality and reasonable price. Plus, the gym owner is a fitness professional so be assured that he knows his business well.

6. Power Up Fitness

Address: 40, Ky Dong Street, Ward 9, District 3
Opening hours: 6 AM – 9 PM

Adored by many for its open-air, friendly atmosphere and well-maintained machines, Power Up Fitness is long known as one of the most popular gyms around District 3.

Precautions For Gyms In Ho Chi Minh City

To not waste your money, especially when it comes to your health, research is key.

• Firstly, you’d want to look for gyms with knowledgeable trainers. Don’t rush into signing up just because of their sculptured bodies, but, to be a good trainer, one also needs to know how to design the most suitable program for your needs and body types.
• Secondly, choose clean gyms that are in good condition. Machines play an essential role in building up your muscles so wise investment is necessary.
• Lastly, look for a comfortable environment. If you feel awkward or troubled by the members or trainers, that means it’s not suitable. Working out should be empowering both for the body and the mind.

Choose a trainer who has good knowledge and that you’re happy with

Summary On Gyms In Ho Chi Minh City

Going to the gym can be a frightening thought, not least in a foreign country! But, don’t let your nerves stop you from improving your health. Whatever type of gym you choose, most of the time fellow gym-goers and trainers are willing to help, especially with newcomers.

Other helpful articles to check:

Best outdoor activities in Ho Chi Minh City
How not to gain weight in Ho Chi Minh City

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