5 Fitness Retreat Myths Debunked

Thinking about booking a retreat, but not sure what to expect? We're setting the record straight about five common fitness retreat misconceptions! Read on to hear from two-time Ketanga Fitness Retreat alum, Amy Furman, what really happens - and doesn't happen - on these 'mysterious' getaways and what you can expect when you join in!

​Misconception #1: I won’t have time to vacation on a fitness retreat.

Ketanga prides itself on incorporating not only fitness, but also adventure and relaxation into every trip they plan. This means that while you’ll typically have two challenging workouts each day, you’ll also have a significant amount of downtime during the day and in the evening with the option to lay by the pool, explore the local community, or join an excursion like zip lining, hiking, or horseback riding. It’s this kind of variety that I think makes for the ultimate, well-rounded fit-cation! Plus, if you're ever feeling tired or sore, you are welcome to skip a workout - it's YOUR vacation and Ketanga wants everyone to take what they need out of the experience.

​Misconception #2: The workouts will be too hard... or too easy!

You don’t have to be a certified yogi or personal trainer to join a Ketanga Fitness Retreat! The coaches (who are certified trainers) are prepared to modify exercises and offer options for all skill and comfort levels. In fact, a retreat creates a small, group-training atmosphere where the coach is able to monitor and support each individual through the workout to tailor specific exercises and increase or decrease intensity levels. Throughout the retreat, you’ll have access to your retreat coach (or coaches) to get all of your fitness (and sometimes nutrition) questions answered, and you can even set goals for working out back home.
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Misconception #3: Food options will be limited. 

Actually, you’ll be able to eat whatever you want! There’s no diet that retreat participants are expected to follow and there are no restrictions on any food or type of eating. However, Ketanga always makes sure there are healthy choices available to you where you are staying, and you may get a few free samples of health-oriented snacks in your welcome bag for when you need a little pick-me-up. Also, many of the retreat coaches are also qualified to provide guidance on meal prep, cooking techniques and how to best follow a diet that supports your training.

​Depending on the location of the retreat, sometimes all the meals will be included, and other times you will have the freedom to visit authentic local restaurants, but either way, Ketanga feels strongly about getting to know the local culture - and cuisine - especially on international trips! Whether that's learning to make ceviche in Costa Rica or trying Banks beer in Barbados, they work hard to make sure you're well fed and experiencing new things. And if you have dietary restrictions? No problem. And as long as you provide your information in advance, your individual preferences will always be accommodated.
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​Misconception #4: I'll be doing yoga all day!

While Ketanga offers dedicated yoga retreats, most of their trips run the fitness gamut. Ketanga was actually founded to provide more variety in the wellness retreat world (which was already saturated with yoga)! So, from Pilates to HIIT to boxing, there is something for everyone whether that means yoga or something else!

Misconception #5: I won't have any fun because I won't know anybody!

Fitness retreats attract people with similar interests – fitness, adventure, travel... And most of Ketanga's guests actually come by themselves (me included!). What do you get when you have a trip full of strangers who enjoy many of the same things? New friends! There is plenty of time to bond beyond the mats. Go horseback riding, lounge by the pool or discover a new restaurant with your retreat-mates. Ketanga makes it feel safe and fun to travel by yourself without ever being alone.
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Have any questions about retreat life or something to add to the list? Comment below!

By Amy
Amy Furman is an eternal idealist who enjoys diving into a good book as much as she enjoys sweating off the stress of NYC living and traveling to new places (all of which brought her to Ketanga Fitness!).

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