Condo Pro: Condos Fit the Fitness Lifestyle

By Barbara Lawlor

If fitness is part of your lifestyle, a condominium is a great choice for your home. When you live in a condo, keeping active, energetic and relaxed can easily become part of your daily experience. The fact that condominiums are situated close to amenities means that residents can walk to local shops and services rather than having to drive. Walking is really the first level of fitness, and we could all use more of this activity. Plus, with the City of Toronto requiring each new condo to have a certain number of bicycle parking spots for residents as well as visitors, suite owners can burn off calories using pedal power to get where they want.

Of course, then there are the buildings themselves, which today encompass a wide variety of beautifully designed amenities. Fitness facilities rank high on everyone’s must-have list when it comes to making a decision on which condominium to select. Gyms are cutting edge today, with elaborate equipment for those who want to lift weights and work out. We’re seeing wonderful yoga and Pilates areas, and even extra-large gymnasiums that have high enough ceilings to include basketball courts. Unlike fitness facilities of the past, these areas are infused with natural light from large windows, creating inspiring surroundings. Suite owners can bring in personal trainers, and many condo corporations are hiring recreational coordinators to organize classes and help residents uphold their fitness regimens.

What’s even more appealing is the fact that owners can work out without leaving home. How many people have bought memberships at gyms, gone a few times, then let their memberships lapse because of the hassle of having to drive to a facility, park, change, shower and drive home again? Today’s condominium fitness areas have change rooms and often saunas and/or steam rooms and whirlpools as well, for relaxing after workouts. And these areas are usually adjacent to a plunge pool or swimming pool for water-lovers. Unlike the apartment buildings and condominiums of the past, pools are not relegated to dank basements. Today, you’ll find them at high levels, or even on rooftops to make the most of stunning views.

Climbing walls, virtual golf, meditation lounges … the breadth of amenities available in condominiums is remarkable. In addition, designers appoint all of these amenity spaces to the style and caliber of the rest of the building – which means that residents can exercise in gorgeous settings. From the clean lines of minimalist to the opulence of traditional design, there is literally something for everyone who likes to keep fit. In fact when you get right down to it, condo fitness facilities are nicer and more exclusive than many commercial clubs.

As people become more fitness conscious, they also tend to pay more attention to healthy eating – and nowadays, eating “close to home” is the goal as much as possible. Some condominiums provide residents with gardening plots so they can grow their own herbs, vegetables and even flowers. Gardening is one of North America’s favourite pastimes. If you are an avid cook you know that there is nothing like fresh herbs and veggies to liven up a meal. And if you take part in the glorious hobby of gardening, you know that it is also a form of vigorous exercise. Talk about a win-win situation!

Fitness facilities also provide lovely spots for visiting with neighbours and friends. These are great places to interact with like-minded people who understand the importance of creating balance in their hectic lives. Whether it’s a vigorous workout with weights, an energetic aerobics class, a feel-good yoga session, a basketball game or a swim, the fulfillment of your exercise needs in a condominium is just an elevator ride away. And when your session is over, what a luxury to unwind in a hot tub or steam room and re-evaluate your day in comfort. There are oh, so many reasons to choose condominium living – a vibrant fitness culture is one of them!

Barbara Lawlor is president of Baker Real Estate Incorporated and an in-demand columnist and speaker. A member of the Baker team since 1993, she oversees the marketing and sales of condominium developments in the GTA and overseas. Keep current with The Baker Blog at blog.bakerrealestate.com