As a fitness fanatic, I always make it a point to research local gyms in the areas that I’m visiting.

Many months ago, I stumbled on the website for a personal trainer in Tamarindo named Nick Holt. I emailed him, asking about nearby gyms, and the services he provided. He responded instantly with all sorts of valuable information regarding the various gyms, drop in rates, and classes he taught. I was so excited, and had full intentions of connecting with him, then, in the whirlwind of travel prep, promptly forgot.

On the second day of my morning beach run routine, I noticed a beach bootcamp going on. I was instantly homesick for my Wholly Fit family back in Victoria, and began craving a little group fitness action. I looked up Nick’s email, and it turned out it was him teaching the class!

He has space available in his TRX class at a drop in rate of $15 bucks. After a week of beach runs and hostel workouts, It was an offer I couldn’t refuse.

So, on Tuesday night, I made the trek to the Tamarindo Gym. It’s a little ways out of town, so plan accordingly. It was about a 10 min walk from our hostel. That being said, Nick laughed at my punctual attendance. I’m not sure I’ll ever get used to “Tico Time”.

The Tamarindo Gym

I walked in the gym and felt right at home. As a former gym rat, the thought of having all this equipment available to me made my heart skip a beat. You can get a day pass for 5 dollars or a week for 20. Such an awesome deal considering back home you’re looking at about 20 bucks for one day!

The class was held in a small mirrored room attached to the gym. I stretched out as I waited for the other members to arrive.

TRX, all set up!

Although I had used TRX before, I had never taken an entire class in it. From my experience, I was expecting a great strength workout, what I wasn’t expecting was the cardio blast I got as well.

Nick was a fabulous instructor, and created a circuit that included upper and lower body with short intense cardio bursts in between. I couldn’t believe when he said we would do abs, and then we were done. The class just flew by! I knew instantly that I would be coming back for his second class later that week.

There is something to be said for seeking out workout alternatives while travelling. Although I feel I am capable of creating my own workouts everyday, it is SO nice to just show up, and have someone tell you what to do.

If you are visiting the Tamarindo area, and are looking for ways to balance the beer consumption with awesome fitness instruction, I highly suggest Nick’s services. He offers a variety of classes, and training options, and also has a great newsletter and YouTube channel.

What are your experiences with local gyms while travelling? Have you ever taken fitness classes in other countries?

Pura Vida!

Kate
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