​Selecting the Right Fitness Equipment for Your Short-Term Rental 

In today's fast-paced world, health and wellness have taken center stage. More than ever, travelers seek ways to maintain their fitness routines while away from home. As a short-term rental property owner, providing fitness and wellness amenities increases your property's appeal and adds significant value. Let's delve into how you can transform your rental space into a health oasis, regardless of size.

For the Dedicated Spaces: Basements, Garages, and Spare Rooms

Complete Home Gyms: For properties with ample space, like basements, garages, outbuildings, and spare rooms, investing in a total home gym can turn your listing into a wellness destination. Popular equipment to consider include: Multi-gym machines come in various sizes and can cater to different fitness levels. They often incorporate a combination of weight stacks, pulleys, and bars, allowing guests to get a full-body workout.

Cardio Machines: Treadmills, ellipticals, rowers, and spin bikes are popular additions. Ensure they have intuitive interfaces, so guests of all tech levels feel comfortable. Remember to include a safety mat beneath these machines to protect the flooring and reduce noise.

Free Weights Area: A set of dumbbells and/or kettlebells, an adjustable bench, and some resistance bands can create a simple yet effective free weights section. This provides versatility, allowing for strength training of different muscle groups. Flooring: For comfort, safety, and sound dampening, consider adding  rubber gym flooring. Options include interlocking rubber tiles and rolled rubber flooring in various finishes, from basic black to vibrant colors to faux wood.

For Limited Spaces: Corners of Bedrooms or Entertainment Rooms

Compact Cardio Options: Consider a spin bike, compact treadmill, or indoor rower. These compact machines can be stored away easily when not in use.

Space-Saving Resistance Accessories: Resistance bands, suspension trainers, and dumbbells can fit in small storage spaces, yet they offer many exercise options.

Wellness Amenities: The Cherry on Top 

Saunas: A sauna can be an exquisite addition, offering guests relaxation and various health benefits. They help in detoxification, improving circulation, and relieving stress. Traditional and infrared saunas are available, with the latter being more energy-efficient and easier to install.

Cold Plunges: For those aiming to offer the ultimate wellness experience, cold plunges can be a hit. They help reduce muscle inflammation, improve circulation, and boost mental clarity. While the initial investment can be significant, the returns in terms of bookings and rental rates can make it worthwhile.

Going Outdoors: Expanding Beyond the Indoors 

For properties without dedicated interior space, the outdoors offers a plethora of opportunities:

Outdoor Fitness Equipment: Think of pull-up bars, parallel bars, or weather-resistant resistance bands. These can be installed in gardens or patios, providing an open-air fitness experience.

Outdoor Saunas: An outdoor barrel sauna or a mobile sauna can be a unique offering, making your property stand out. Besides the health benefits, it offers a chance to connect with nature, enhancing the overall experience.

Additional Considerations

Maintenance: Durable, high-quality equipment lasts longer and requires less maintenance, which is especially important for short-term rental properties. Invest in commercial-quality equipment to avoid the hassle of replacing or repairing frequently. Avoid big-box consumer-grade equipment. Follow the manufacturer’s guidance for regular maintenance, which your equipment supplier can often handle.

Safety: Ensure the equipment is in good working order and replace worn or damaged items. Also, consider providing instruction manuals or access to online tutorials.

Hygiene: Fitness equipment gets sweaty. Provide antibacterial disinfecting wipes and a sign reminding guests to wipe down equipment after use. Guest Feedback: Once your equipment is in place, gather guest feedback. They'll provide insights into what's popular, what's not, and what might be missing. The Investment Justification Increased Booking 

Rates: With more travelers prioritizing health and wellness, properties offering such amenities will have higher occupancy rates. 

Premium Pricing: Amenities like home gyms and saunas allow you to position your property as a premium offering, justifying higher rental rates. 

Positive Reviews & Repeat Bookings: Offering unique and valuable amenities can lead to glowing reviews, enhancing your property's reputation and ensuring repeat bookings. 

Whether you have a sprawling space or just a cozy corner, there are many opportunities to transform your rental property into a wellness retreat. Listen to the market, invest wisely, and watch your bookings soar.