January is the time when many people set goals and resolve to be their very best. Not surprisingly, weight loss and fitness are the most common resolutions. It is also a time when many residents will plan vacations and travel to warmer climates. Well, it may be that you can do both… This year consider visiting a “Fitness Resort.” According to “FitStays,” fitness resorts are rapidly gaining popularity for people of all sizes and shapes. Thousands of people chose to visit fitness resorts and fitness retreats every year because they are looking for a healthy alternative to a typical vacation. Instead, many want to “kick-start” a healthy lifestyle in a controlled environment. Weight loss spas offer a unique and holistic approach to managing weight while prioritizing overall wellness. These retreats combine personalized fitness programs, expert nutritional guidance, and cutting-edge therapies in luxurious settings, helping guests achieve sustainable weight loss.
What is a Fitness Resort?
A fitness resort is a vacation destination where travelers go to exercise and lose weight. Most fitness resorts consist of pre-determined, calorie-limited menus to help travelers in their weight loss journey. In addition to net-negative calories through nutrition, fitness resorts and retreats typically have an extensive workout plan as part of their standard program. The combination of healthy nutrition and active exercise means that most visitors can expect to lose weight at a fitness resort.
Fitness resorts (fitness retreats) are not your average “Reality TV Fat Camp.” In fact, you do not have to be excessively overweight to attend as people of all shapes and sizes benefit and enjoy the experience. Typically, fitness resorts offer one week programs but multiple weeks with a variety of options are available. Fitness resorts, like everything else, vary in cost. To choose the best fit for you, your budget, and goals, visit fitstay.com. Remember, most fitness resorts are all-inclusive, meaning that you won’t need to budget any extra for food. The program includes meals.
Featured Fitness Resorts and Wellness Retreats
Structure House
Structure House is a residential weight loss center in Durham, North Carolina. This all-inclusive health resort promotes physical, nutritional, and behavioral principles for helping guests achieve their wellness goals.
Skyterra Wellness Retreat
Skyterra Wellness Retreat is an all-inclusive fitness resort and wellness retreat designed to help guests lose weight, gain muscle, and feel better.
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Live In Fitness
Originally located in Long Beach, California, “Live In Fitness” has temporarily moved to a new location in Scottsdale, Arizona.
Weight Crafters
Weight Crafters is a popular weight loss camp located in the Tampa-St. Petersburg Florida area.
Pocono Trails Adult Fitness Camps
Pocono Trails Adult Fitness Camps offers fitness camps for young adults, moms, and families. Their young adult camp is designed for men and women ages 18 to 25. While the mom and family camps are open to those respective groups each summer.
Biggest Loser Resort
Biggest Loser Resort is a fitness resort in Java Center, NY.
Hippocrates Health Institute
Hippocrates Health Institute is located at the Hippocrates Health Institute in West Palm Beach, Florida. At this wellness resort, there is a heavy emphasis on diet and nutrition.
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Global Weight Loss Spa Destinations
Euphoria Retreat
Euphoria Retreat, located in the heart of the Peloponnese in Greece, offers a unique wellness experience that blends ancient Greek and Chinese healing philosophies within a luxurious and tranquil setting. Nestled in Mystras, a UNESCO-listed town, the retreat is renowned for its state-of-the-art spa facilities, which include a 4-story wellness center featuring saunas, a cold plunge pool, and hydrotherapy options. Guests can indulge in an array of treatments that prioritize holistic well-being, such as Kneipp water therapy, aromatherapy, and hot stone massages.
Euphoria Retreats’ approach integrates physical fitness and mindfulness with activities like yoga, pilates, hiking, and meditation. These are complemented by tailored wellness programs, including detox services, weight management, and emotional balance retreats. The on-site restaurant serves nutritious Mediterranean cuisine that detoxes and boosts energy.
Chiva-Som
Set on the beautiful beaches of Hua Hin, Thailand, Chiva-Som is a luxury wellness retreat that offers a holistic and integrative approach to health and well-being. The program combines Eastern and Western therapies with customized wellness programs designed to meet individual health goals, including detox, weight management, fitness, and stress relief. The retreat offers over 200 treatment options, including traditional Thai therapies, advanced physiotherapy, acupuncture, and spa treatments.
Chiva-Som focuses on mind-body balance through various activities, such as yoga, meditation, Tai Chi, and fitness training. Chiva-Som crafts personalized wellness journeys, where guests undergo consultations with health professionals to develop tailored plans based on their specific needs. The serene surroundings, luxurious accommodations, and wellness offerings all create a transformative experience for guests.
Golden Door
Golden Door is a luxury wellness retreat in San Marcos, California that offers a truly personalized and immersive experience aimed at rejuvenating the body, mind, and spirit. Set on over 600 acres of private land, it includes 30 miles of exclusive hiking trails, biodynamic gardens, and serene natural surroundings. Each guest enjoys a custom wellness plan tailored to their goals, including daily spa treatments, fitness classes, and nutritious farm-to-table meals sourced from their own organic farms. The intimate setting, accommodating only 40 guests at a time, provides a highly personalized experience with a 4:1 staff-to-guest ratio.
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The wellness journey at Golden Door is deeply holistic, focusing on physical fitness, mental clarity, and spiritual healing. Offerings range from yoga, pilates, and meditation to more adventurous activities like archery. The retreat also integrates mindfulness practices and personal empowerment workshops, making it a transformative experience for those seeking a fresh start, relaxation, or recovery from life’s challenges.
SHA Wellness Clinic
Tucked away in serene Alicante, Spain with stunning ocean views, SHA Wellness Clinic is a unique wellness retreat that combines modern medicine with natural therapies, drawing from both Eastern and Western practices. The SHA Method is a holistic approach focused on improving long-term well-being through personalized health programs that are tailored to address a wide array of needs, such as weight management, fitness, stress relief, and anti-aging.
The clinic utilizes cutting-edge medical treatments alongside holistic therapies like genetic testing, hydrotherapy, and acupuncture. Its Integrative Health Programs are designed to help guests achieve optimal health by blending medical expertise, nutrition, physical activity, and relaxation techniques.
Clinique La Prairie
Clinique La Prairie, located on the shores of Lake Geneva in Montreux, Switzerland, is a world-renowned luxury retreat known for its innovative approach to health and longevity. Established in 1931, it combines cutting-edge medical science with holistic therapies, offering a unique and personalized approach to wellness. The retreat’s Revitalization Program is based on a unique cell therapy that is integrated into a broader philosophy that blends preventive medicine, longevity research, and natural wellness practices.
The clinic emphasizes personalized care, offering tailor-made health programs that address various needs such as detox, stress management, weight loss, and anti-aging. Guests benefit from access to leading specialists, advanced diagnostic technologies, and a luxurious spa experience. In addition to its health programs, Clinique La Prairie is renowned for its tranquil location with views of the Alps and Lake Geneva, luxurious accommodations, and Michelin-starred dining focused on balanced, nutritious meals.
VIVAMAYR
VIVAMAYR is known for its unique fusion of modern medicine and traditional healing practices based on the Mayr Cure, a detoxification method developed by Dr. Franz Xaver Mayr. Located in Austria, VIVAMAYR’s programs focus on improving gut health and overall well-being through personalized medical diagnostics, nutrition plans, and holistic therapies.
The retreat offers various health programs tailored to individual needs, such as weight and stress management. They believe that gut health is key to overall health, so VIVAMAYR integrates cutting-edge medical treatments with lifestyle coaching, therapeutic fasting, and mindful eating practices. The retreat combines advanced diagnostic tools with therapies like hydrotherapy, massage, and tailored fitness programs, all set in a tranquil environment, offering a holistic path to lifelong wellness.
Preidlhof
Preidlhof, located in South Tyrol, Italy, is a luxurious retreat renowned for its comprehensive approach to well-being, combining relaxation, medical spa treatments, and holistic healing. With the serene backdrop of the Italian Alps, Preidlhof’s attention to personalized care, innovative treatments, and unique location combine to create a wellness retreat that offers both luxury and rejuvenation .
Preidlhof’s 6-floor spa includes saunas, steam rooms, pools, and panoramic relaxation areas, providing a unique experience. Guests can indulge in treatments ranging from massages to advanced medical therapies like anti-aging and detox treatments. Preidlhof also offers various holistic wellness programs that integrate mindfulness, nutrition, and fitness, making it a destination for those seeking a transformative health experience.
Absolute Sanctuary
Absolute Sanctuary is a standout wellness retreat located on the island of Koh Samui in Thailand that specializes in fitness, detox, and overall well-being. The facility combines holistic health programs with a luxury resort experience, and it’s particularly renowned for its comprehensive detox programs, yoga retreats, and fitness boot camps, all designed to help guests rejuvenate their body and mind.
The retreat offers an extensive range of wellness facilities, including a top-notch fitness center, yoga studio, detox center, and spa with treatments ranging from massages to specialized therapies like colon hydrotherapy. Its programs are customizable to address specific health goals. Absolute Sanctuary strives to provide healthy cuisine with nutritious, plant-based meals that complement guests’ wellness journeys.
Rancho La Puerta
Rancho La Puerta is a pioneering wellness retreat known for its holistic approach to well-being, blending fitness, mindfulness, and nature. Established in 1940 in Baja California, Mexico, it has a rich legacy of promoting health through connection with nature and personal empowerment. The retreat offers an all-inclusive wellness program that provides 80+ fitness classes, therapeutic spa treatments, and workshops aimed at enhancing physical, mental, and spiritual well-being.
Rancho La Puerta’s mission and legacy focus on creating personal transformation and community through an environment where guests can unplug from daily life and focus on lasting well-being. The retreat features an organic farm-to-table dining experience, where meals are sourced from the center’s own gardens to incorporate nutrition as a key part of the wellness journey. Mindfulness is a core value and is utilized through activities such as meditation, yoga, and nature hikes across the 4,000-acre property.
Canyon Ranch
Canyon Ranch in Tucson, Arizona, has an integrative approach to health and well-being, focusing on whole-person wellness and offering customized programs that address physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual health. The resort provides an extensive range of services and experiences, including fitness classes, spa treatments, nutritional guidance, and specialized wellness consultations with medical experts, life coaches, and spiritual advisers.
Set in the Sonoran Desert, Canyon Ranch integrates nature into its wellness offerings with outdoor activities like hiking and biking to take advantage of the desert landscape. The retreat also provides mind-body practices such as yoga, meditation, and mindfulness to complement cutting-edge treatments in their spa and health centers.
Additional Wellness Destinations
The Lodge & Spa at Brush Creek Ranch
Whether or not you’re a Yellowstone fan, this rustic, upscale getaway is Western luxury at its finest. Set on a tantalizing, secluded 30,000+ acres in Wyoming, The Lodge & Spa at Brush Creek Ranch is a modern-authentic dude ranch situated in the picturesque Medicine Bow National Forest. Every season at Brush Creek offers a dynamic mix of soothing and invigorating experiences, like llama snowshoeing through crisp, snowy trails, conquering a full day of picnic horseback riding, and finding your inner zen with snowga (aka yoga in the snow). For a real western thrill, authentic barrel racing or a cattle drive await.
When it came time to decompress, I ventured through the snowy paths to a vintage schoolhouse for yoga. Waking up to a mountaintop sunrise at Brush Creek is surreal, but the farm-to-table breakfast was the icing on top of the mountain. After a day of outdoor adventures, saloon cocktails were in order. Dinner is nothing short of indulgent at the luxurious western “pasture-to-plate” Cheyenne Club Restaurant. The menu features exceptional dishes like Miso Glazed Black Cod and Hearth Grilled Venison Saddle, with the beef coming straight from the ranch’s own wagyu cattle. Wine lovers, take note! Brush Creek is home to one of the top 10 largest wine collections in the world. Every package at Brush Creek Ranch is all-inclusive, with add-ons available.
SLS Baha Mar
SLS Baha Mar in Nassau, Bahamas, is an alluring, tropical escape for sun gods and goddesses alike. I quickly understood why Nassau is often referred to as the climate of perfection. What I loved most about my time at the SLS Baha Mar was that I didn’t need to leave the resort to have the reset of my dreams. This oceanside haven has it all, from opulent spa services to wellness activities like flamingo yoga to 45+ top-notch dining experiences across the Baha Mar resort property.
Each day at SLS Baha Mar offered new ways to stay active while embracing the stunning tropical surroundings. My mornings began with invigorating power walks on the way to flamingo yoga through lavish gardens and the beach. Along the way, I discovered my favorite spot at the Baha Bay Beach Club, where I was able to kick back and savor an exotic tropical fruit salad, which I paired with a piña colada. Another major highlight of my stay was the many choices of water activities. The resort offers floating lounges, paddleboarding, kayaking and more. One of the standout experiences was putting on an apron for a traditional Bahamian cooking class with the talented Chef Tevin Kemp. Touring the resort’s Current Art Studio was truly inspiring. The display of contemporary art from Bahamian artists was nothing short of extraordinary.
Sensei Porcupine Creek
Nestled at the base of the stunning Santa Rosa Mountains in Rancho Mirage, CA, lies Sensei Porcupine Creek. This exclusive desert luxury wellness retreat has become a favorite among fitness enthusiasts, celebrities, and pro athletes-and after my total-body refresh at this oasis, I can see why. Every aspect of my stay was constructed to optimize my wellbeing according to “the Sensei Way,” the resort’s main philosophy that’s rooted in science, supported by proven methods, and led by top wellness experts using cutting-edge technology, such as tools to perform “thermal body mapping,” test VO2 Max, and track your health stats. The result? A retreat experience like no other.
I embraced the expertise of my Sensei Guide, who helped me establish clear wellness intentions. My goals centered around unwinding, relaxing, and improving my sleep-making the Rest and Recovery Program the ideal choice for me. Other programs at Sensei include the Golf Optimal Wellbeing Program, Tennis Optimal Wellbeing Program, Guided Wellness Experience, Sensei Coachella Valley Hiking Experience, and Sabbatical Experience. The shining star of my stay-and I had many!-was the Calming Body Cocoon. I also enjoyed a Desert Herb Poultice and Oil Massage, a total-body ritual that connected me with nature through steam-heated desert herb poultices and aromatic oils.
When activity time rolled around, I laced up my tennis shoes and grabbed a racket for Tennis Basics at Sensei’s courts. The stunning desert backdrop is an inspiring spot to hit some balls-even when you’re a beginner like me! To further relax and unwind, I participated in Breathwork Basics. Sensei Porcupine Creek’s culinary offerings are equally noteworthy. One of my most memorable one-on-one sessions was Sensory Eating, part of the Rest and Recovery Program. I dined at Sensei by Nobu, Sensei’s Sushi Bar, and indulged in the savory poolside menu during my stay.
Baron’s Cove
Sag Harbor is a classic coastal escape in the Hamptons and a spectacular destination for wellness, fitness, and adventures-both on and off the water. After a quick ferry ride and Uber from Connecticut, I found myself ready to unwind and explore Baron’s Cove. Each morning at Baron’s Cove, I woke up to a dreamy breeze drifting to my porch from the bay. The tranquil atmosphere was the ideal start to my day, whether I chose to join a yoga class on the lawn, swim laps in the pool, pedal into town for an iced coffee, or simply cool off with a fresh fruit smoothie on the hydrangea-covered front porch.
Learning how to wakesurf was one of the most intoxicating experiences during my time in Sag Harbor. Whether you’re experienced or a total novice, wakesurfing in this charming village is a must. With the help of a pro from Peconic Watersports, I learned how to catch waves from a boat that was designed to make surf-ready waves. Another notable experience was hopping on a jet ski to enjoy the stunning views of Peconic Bay. Of course, my time in Sag Harbor wouldn’t have been complete without a sunset oyster sail. This is an absolute must when in the area. To top off my culinary adventures, I indulged in a chic clam and lobster bake on Long Beach. There’s nothing like sipping wine at sunset while digging into a plate of fresh lobster, clams, coleslaw, potatoes, and cornbread. Dining on the sand at an elegantly set table with the sunset melting into the water felt surreal.
Sensei Lanai, A Four Seasons Resort
Sensei Lanai, A Four Seasons Resort, is an adults-only wellness retreat tucked away in the breathtaking mountains of Lanai, Hawaii. During my stay, I immersed myself in relaxation, adventure, and culinary delectables, all curated to rejuvenate the mind, body, and soul. I began my Sensei journey with the Optimal Wellbeing Program, where the WHOOP 4.0 band became my new best friend. This wearable device tracked my sleep, fitness, and health habits, not only during my stay but also before and after my retreat.
The most luxurious experience, by far, was spending time in a private spa hale. Here, I enjoyed a Thermal Body Mapping and Massage. Sensei’s exclusively developed thermographic technology created a visual “map” of my body, highlighting areas of pain, tension, muscle tightness, or asymmetries. For those who love the great outdoors, Sensei Lanai also offers unparalleled hiking trails. I laced up my sneakers and embarked on a 5.3-mile hike from Kaiholena Trail to Kaiholena Ridge. After each day of wellness and adventure, I indulged in the exceptional culinary offerings at Sensei by Nobu, a stunning fine dining glass pavilion situated by a reflecting pond. The Tasting Menu, which I savored on my first evening, was undeniably scrumptious. Sensei Lanai offers several impeccable dining options on the property, including Sensei by Nobu, Koele Garden Bar (complete with cozy fire pits), and poolside dining.
Wildflower Farms
Set on 140 Arcadian acres in the stunning Hudson Valley, Wildflower Farms offers a blend of rural luxury and natural beauty for a wellness getaway you won’t soon forget. This picturesque escape is a quick 90-minute drive from Manhattan but feels worlds away with its cozy cabins, endless fields of native flowers, toasty fire pits, and unparalleled views of Shawangunk Ridge. The getaway was designed to rejuvenate both the body and mind, with a focus on healthy eating, relaxation, and unique group activities. I gave pressed flower pottery a try and left feeling pleasantly surprised with my skills.
Thistle, An Auberge Spa, will surely delight your senses, combining nature’s calming healing powers with rejuvenating bodywork and local, hand-blended products. At night, I was greeted with a “rest ritual” card and lavender sachet, complete with instructions to place the sachet over my eyes and repeat the card’s mantra for a restful night’s sleep. The cuisine at Wildflower Farms was a standout feature of my visit, offering a scrumptious farm-to-table experience. One of my favorite activities was the botanical mixology class, where I learned how to mix up some of Wildflower Farms’ signature cocktails with fresh ingredients and the farm’s botanical infusions.
Wymara Resort
Staying in an oceanfront studio at the Wymara Resort was a dream come true. We spent our days floating and snorkeling in the serene, crystal-clear waters of Grace Bay Beach, which felt like soothing bath water. The opulent, soft white sand added to the overall feeling of tranquility. The wellness focus at Wymara is extraordinary. From the moment I arrived, I felt pure relaxation rush through me. First on our agenda? We indulged in an incredible full-body couples massage that left us feeling completely relaxed and rejuvenated.
The spa’s wellness program doesn’t stop there; it also includes outdoor power yoga and barre classes, allowing guests to stay active in the open air while enjoying the beautiful tropical surroundings. When it came time to venture outside the resort, we found our absolute favorite adventure to date: hopping on a two-seater power catamaran with High Wave Tours. Dining at Wymara was an experience in itself. One of the highlights was sipping sunset drinks on the sand at Pink Bar, where we indulged in frosé (served in a chic pink wine glass!) and the Caribbean Queen Punch.
Benefits of Luxury Weight Loss Spas
Beyond the physical benefits, luxury weight loss spas support mental and emotional well-being by incorporating mindfulness practices like yoga, meditation, and stress relief techniques. The serene, high-end environments can provide a peaceful escape from daily life, allowing guests to focus entirely on their health and transformation in comfort and luxury.
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