Whether you’ve overindulged for the holidays, or just want to kick-start the New Year, it is never too late to take your wellness in your own hands before your big day. If you’re looking to reevaluate your fitness goals and need a push, then a bootcamp is what you’re looking for. Many bridal parties, or solo brides-to-be like to take a break from wedding planning while dedicating time for workouts to get into their best shape possible. Not only do these luxury fitness havens do wonders for your muscle-tone, complexion and energy levels; spending enough time by the sea, under the sun and in nature has proven to be an effective stress-buster. And what better way to start the next chapter of your life than looking and feeling your best? We round up our top picks rated on their luxury services, fitness programs and wellness offerings.
1. La Réserve Ramatuelle, France
A little outside Saint-Tropez, this fitness retreat is best enjoyed in the summer. But the surprisingly rigorous boot camp is centered on the very civilised European sport of Nordic walking, which is no easy feat. Each guest starts with a medical assessment before starting on a program of daily 15km to 20km treks through the mountains and along the coast, tailored to guests’ fitness levels. The program is complemented by a balanced Mediterranean diet and slimming treatments like bathing in mineral-rich waters which speeds up the results. The boot camp program is five nights and available anytime from April to November.
2. The Island Experience, Ilha Grande, Brazil
The seven-day fitness program is designed to detox and de-stress through rainforest hiking, kayaking, yoga and meditation, and a vegetarian diet. The exclusive program, limited to 12 guests allows the team to give personal attention and gentle encouragement, rather than drill-sergeant discipline. The founders created the island experience after a seven-day hike around Ilha Grande that left them wanting to share the experience with others: not just physical challenges but also learning to face one’s limits and overcome all hurdles.
3. The Ranch at Live Oak, Malibu, California
A celebrity hotspot, the Ranch offers an acclaimed wellness, weight loss and nutritional programs, but is particularly famous for its strict military style workouts. Everything is mandatory and nothing is off limited. Pre-dawn wake-up calls, morning yoga, a 12-mile hike every day and four hours of fitness classes, and not to forget the diet which restricts meat, wheat, sugar, dairy, caffeine, alcohol, or processed foods. For serious takers only!
