Exercising in Seoul

Guide to Maintaining Fitness in Seoul

Are you the type of person who looks for gyms, fitness classes, or hiking trails when planning your next vacation? If so, you're in luck! Seoul is a fitness enthusiast's paradise, offering a wide range of enjoyable and physical activities to suit every budget. With thousands of options to choose from, we will cover some of the basics.

Gyms/Classes

Cost: Varies depending on duration of stay and number of classes
If you have an insatiable desire to lift heavy weights or join a lively Zumba class, consider visiting a local gym. Most classes might be conducted in Korean, but they are easy to follow along with, allowing you to break a sweat!

A recommendation to consider is GOTO Fitness, with numerous locations throughout Seoul. Notably, some staff members there are proficient in English. Equipped with all the necessary exercise tools, GOTO Fitness offers a diverse range of classes, including yoga. Additionally, they provide a healing zone to relax in and sportswear rentals tailored to specific activities.

Rock Climbing

Cost: 15000w-30000w for Day Pass + Equipment rental (if required)
Beyond the typical gym experience, you might want to explore the world of rock climbing! If you haven't yet ventured into a rock climbing gym, prepare yourself for an incredible workout that will engage muscles you never knew existed. You can find various types of climbing gyms suitable for all skill levels, from wall climbing to bouldering.

For those seeking practice and bouldering opportunities, consider checking out The Climb, located in the vibrant area of Hongdae. The Climb is a bouldering gym, eliminating the need to worry about mastering intricate knot-tying techniques. It is an ideal choice for those who fear heights or beginners new to rock climbing. With a day pass priced at 20000w, you can easily rent equipment (shoes for 3000w and chalk for 1000w) at the front desk.

Dance Class

Costs: 15000-35000w
If you yearn to express yourself through dance or desire to learn K-pop's awe-inspiring choreography, Seoul offers an abundance of dance classes. Regardless of whether you are interested in mastering the latest K-pop moves or enhancing your Salsa skills, you will discover a suitable dance class held in your preferred language.

For K-pop dance enthusiasts, I recommend Fanxy Studio. They offer classes conducted in both English and Korean, making it convenient for international participants. Sign up for individual or multiple classes online, and well-trained dance instructors will guide you step-by-step, regardless of your skill level.

Hiking

Cost: FREE
If your goal is to explore the city's sights while also engaging in cardiovascular exercise, consider embarking on a hiking adventure through Seoul and its surrounding areas.

One of the most accessible hiking trails is located in the heart of Seoul: Namsan Park. The main trail leading up to the tower spans 2.5 miles and showcases a scenic, winding path. Along the way, you will encounter various viewpoints that offer picturesque skylines of Seoul. Ascend during the day for a breath of fresh air and panoramic views, or hike at night to witness the mesmerizing illuminated cityscape.

Outdoor/Public Gyms

Cost: FREE
An interesting fact about Seoul is the abundance of free outdoor/public gyms scattered throughout the city. These gyms provide essential facilities, such as weight benches, ellipticals, and other resistance or bodyweight machines. If you examine a map or locate even the smallest park, chances are you will stumble upon one of these public fitness areas.

For those who prefer not to rely on serendipity, Calisthenic Parks is an excellent resource. This website assists individuals in discovering larger public gyms situated all across Seoul! This serves as a brief introduction to some of the incredible workout opportunities available in Seoul. It is important to note that this list is not exhaustive, as there is a wealth of activities to explore in the city. If you have a favorite activity that you absolutely must not miss during your visit to Seoul, chances are you'll be able to find it numerous times over!

If you require assistance in finding the right fitness activity, please feel free to send us an inquiry.