Sport and fitness in Brussels

Brussels is one of the greenest of Europe’s capitals and thus a great place to walk, cycle or run. The heavy rainfall in the city can be a deterrent for the lazy exerciser. Luckily, the capital has made the most of the fitness craze with an abundance of both indoors and outdoors health clubs and spas to make days a little less grey. Depending on what one is looking for, there's something to meet any expectation and budget.

Recommended fitness facilities in Brussels

Aspria clubs

Aspria has a few locations in Brussels, and all are equipped with fitness studios with the latest modern equipment. These clubs also offer top-notch classes that range from pilates to bodybuilding, spinning, aqua classes and step.

These clubs are beautifully maintained and offer a tranquil atmosphere. A membership is needed to take advantage of the fitness facilities or classes. On top of a yearly membership fee, there's also a once-off joining fee that is non-refundable. The prices change with the economy and there are often packages for families and even a corporate option for a capped number of visits per year.

Expats should check back throughout the year for specials, especially during the holidays and summer, when a lot of people leave Brussels temporarily.

David Lloyd Leisure

The other upmarket club popular with expats is David Lloyd in Uccle. Located in the majestic, leafy setting of a château in the south of Brussels, the club allows members to devote their time to wellbeing and leisure.

The grand setting includes a gym, studios for group sessions, tennis courts, leisure facilities, a crèche, a lounge restaurant and bar, a beauty and hair salon and indoor parking.

This club offers different levels of membership, allowing a member to come in off-peak hours, which is often what most expats opt for. Prices vary throughout the year.

Corpus Studios

Corpus Studios in Ixelles is focused on pilates, with communal classes and private instruction available seven days a week. Instruction is given in English, French, Spanish and Italian if need be. Payment can either be done after each session or a sign up for a series of classes for a better rate.

The Renaissance

The Renaissance hotel near Place Luxembourg offers outsiders the chance to use their fitness facilities at affordable rates if using it during off-peak times, and the bonus here is parking and public transport.

European Fitness Club

European Fitness in Stockel is a real neighbourhood gym. No fuss, no frills, but well-equipped enough to ensure a good workout is had. There are a dozen treadmills, two studios, and changing rooms with showers.

It is connected to the tram and metro, in the centre of a commercial area with restaurants and shops, which makes it very convenient as well.