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Staying Active and Fit in Vientiane 

We know staying fit and healthy is a goal many of us strive for. Fortunately, there are several ways and places to go to do just that in Vientiane, Laos! Regardless of what you prefer, be it running, swimming, yoga, boxing, or even Zumba, there’s definitely something for you in this quaint but fast-growing city. If you’re planning to move, or are already living in the city, we’ve got a great shortlist of the top 6 ways to stay active in Vientiane!

Gyms:

There are a variety of gym options throughout Vientiane, with new ones being built every year. Some gyms are inexpensive with pretty basic equipment, while others are all-inclusive with membership fees.

Gym rates really depend on the facilities and the location. There are payment options for one-day, weekly, monthly, 3-month, 6-month, and yearly passes. If you have a busy schedule and know you can’t consistently go to the gym, a one-day pass might be for you. For more consistent and long-term individuals, it's best to choose one gym and commit to a 6-month or 1-year pass. The longer the commitment, the bigger the discount. 

Gyms to consider:  

K33 Fitness

Fit Station

Empire Fitness

Vientiane Fitness Center

Fitness World

Honey Gym

Olympic Fitness Club – located inside Rashmi’s Hotel

Mina Gym

Sengdara Fitness

These are just a few gyms to think about, but there are plenty more. The best thing to do is to find the one most suitable for you in a location near your job or home.

Boxing:

There are plenty of boxing options in Vientiane; the Indochina region is known for its variety of martial arts, after all. Boxing clubs in Vientiane lets you take up a group boxing class or have a private personal trainer at a gym that offers it. If you’re dedicated to boxing, then a boxing club is for you.

Boxing styles offered can include:

- Muay Thai

- Muay Lao

- Kickboxing

- MMA

Places to check out:

Infinity Club: It is a boutique boxing gym located in the center of Vientiane that specializes in Muay Laos and Lao Kickboxing. Opens at 5 pm.

Safaa Club: Is a boxing club in Ban Phonpaphao focused on self-defense kickboxing. Opens at 6 pm on weekdays.

Cycling:

Cycling is a great way to stay active and get around Vientiane at the same time. Many expats choose to reduce their carbon footprint by purchasing a bike instead of a car or motorbike. Using a bike around the city is part of daily life as made evident by the myriad of bike shops throughout Vientiane. The average price for a new bike is about $100 - $150.

If you are looking to cycle as a sport, there are several cycling clubs that you can join! Cyclists gather together for the weekend, evening, and morning bike rides. You can cycle along the Mekong River, or go outside of the city center into the natures of Vientiane Province.

Yoga:

Yoga is a great way to reduce stress, practice meditations, and stay fit. Many gyms offer yoga in their group classes or you can attend a yoga studio taught by certified yoga trainers. A few studios include:

Art of Living Center – Yoga, Meditation, and Breathing Exercise.

Vientiane Yoga Studio - Various styles of Yoga

Yopi Studio Vientiane – Yoga, Zumba, and Pilates  

Outdoor Activities:

There are several public hotspots for outdoor activities in Vientiane that both the locals and expats enjoy including the Mekong River, That Luang Park, and Patuxay Park.

Mekong River is one of the main hubs in Vientiane and attracts hundreds of people every evening. The sunset over the river makes it a fantastic spot to run, walk, cycle, and take a Zumba class for about 5,000kip.  

The That Luang Park in the city center offers a wonderful view of the Pha That Luang Stupa. There are also several Zumba instructors who set up outdoor Zumba classes around the area. A large lot is also nearby where many runners use as a track. 

You can enjoy a beautiful evening view while exercising at Patuxay, located in the center of Vientiane close to the Presidential Palace. Many people choose to take an evening stroll or run around this popular attraction. 

Swimming:

Laos can get incredibly hot, so, if you're looking for a way to cool down and exercise, a good place to swim is probably for you. There are several places to find a good pool in Vientiane including:

- Apartment Complexes (can be restricted for tenants only): Sky View, Vientiane Garden.

- Hotels: Crowne Plaza, Rashmi’s Plaza, Lao Poet Hotel, Don Chan Palace, S Park Hotel, S2 Hotel, Green Park

- Gyms: Sengdara Fitness Gym

- Public Pools: Vientiane Swimming Pool, Danview (a bit far from the city center)

-  Le Patitoh: Brewery and Swimming Pool

Finding the right activity or activities for you is a wonderful way to socialize, make new friends, and help you with a positive transition to a new life in Laos. Make the best out of your journey by staying fit, active, and healthy in Laos!

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