There’s something about getting up at the crack of dawn, having that first cup of coffee, and then getting a move on.
At camp, trail hiking and building projects get the heart pumping, but there’s something about a lifting workout.
Nothing crazy. Not a full gym, but what if….?
There was a spot to get some reps in.
Just a simple covered area with a bench and some dumbbells.
A place to move a little and to feel good.
The Plan
There’s a perfect spot for a shed roof off one end of the water shed A 12’ x 14’ covered space would be easy to create – and the outside shower is already right there – it’s as if it were meant to be.
Nothing complicated. Just:
- A weight bench
- A set of dumbbells
- Floor space and a rubber mat
- Open sides so it still feels like you’re outside
- A large overhead fan to keep air moving and bugs down
That’s all it would take to do the trick.
Why This Could Be a Worthwhile Glampsite Amenity
If guests are staying for a few days, they may like to:
- Move a little
- Get a quick workout in
- Keep some kind of rhythm going
Not a full gym session—just enough to feel good.
It’s a small thing, but it makes a difference.
You feel better. Sleep better. Enjoy everything else more.
So the idea is simple:
Make that an option. (I know we’ll use it!)
The Upside
It’s Different
Most glampsites don’t offer anything like this.
It’s not a headline feature—but it’s memorable.
Some Guests Will Love It
Not everyone—but the right people will absolutely use it.
And even if they don’t lift, it works for:
- Stretching
- Yoga
- Just laying on a mat and relaxing
It Supports Wellness (Without Being Over the Top)
This isn’t about turning the place into a fitness retreat.
It’s just about giving people a way to:
- Move their body
- Keep a routine
- Feel a little better during their stay
For a lot of people, that matters more than you’d think.
It’s a Relatively Low-Cost Add-On
Compared to other upgrades, this is pretty manageable.
You’re not adding a building—you’re adding a relatively inexpensive useful space.
The Downsides
Not Everyone Will Use It
Some people will ignore it completely, and that’s ok.
But it’s there if they want it.
Weather and Bugs
It’s outside.
Hot days, humidity, and bugs are real.
A big overhead fan can help a lot here.
Wear and Tear
Weights outside won’t stay perfect.
You’ll get:
- Moisture
- Dirt
- Some rust over time
Another reason to keep it simple.
Liability (Keep It Basic)
You don’t want a full gym setup.
Stick with:
- Moderate weights
- No complicated equipment
- Maybe a simple “use at your own risk” sign
It Could Feel Out of Place (If Overdone)
Too much equipment and it starts to feel weird.
This only works if it stays minimal.
Things Worth Thinking Through
Location
Centralized but somewhat private.
For us, this is connected to the water shed. It makes sense.
People are already there. There’s already a shower if wanted.
The Roof
This feels like a must. For shade. For protecting equipment as well as exercisers from the elements.
A roof creates real space at a relatively low price point.
The Fan
This could make all the difference.
Air movement:
- Helps with bugs
- Makes hot days manageable
- Just makes the space more usable
Flooring
Needs to handle:
- Water
- Dirt
- Bare feet
Gravel, pavers, or decking all could work.
Keep It Simple
Just:
Useful. Clean. Easy.
To prevent creating an odd and hard to maintain space.
So… Worth It?
We think so.
Not because it’s going to instantly make more money.
But because it adds even more opportunity to be well.
Something that helps people feel good while they’re there.
And something we can enjoy too.
Worst case?
It’s a covered space with a bench that doesn’t get used all the time. Easily repurposed.
Best case?
It becomes one of those small details people remember.
And those are usually the things that make a place stand out.
What are your thoughts? Would you use something like this?
Leave a comment and let us know!
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Photo by Gia Duabav on Unsplash
