by Caroline Gabsewics
Staff Writer
The Hyatt is about three weeks away from completing their renovations, and one of the areas that is still in the works is the hotel’s new gym.
When the gym on the hotel’s 19th floor is completed, the hotel will also become a part of the chain’s “StayFit@Hyatt 24/7” gym concept.
“We are giving it a new fresh look to go along with the rest of the hotel’s renovations,” said Lin Schatz, executive assistant manager.
Until the gym is complete, the hotel’s new Life Fitness equipment is set up in a meeting room on the third floor for its guests to use. Once the state-of-the-art gym is complete, the StayFit@Hyatt 24/7 that was introduced on Aug. 28 at a Hyatt in New York, Jacksonville’s Hyatt will offer the same amenities that are offered at Hyatts across the United States.
“The reason for this (StayFit@Hyatt) is to help business travelers,” said Schatz. “Many find it hard to stick to their workout routine when they are away from home.”
The gym will be open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, giving the hotel’s guests access to the gym whenever they want, he said. The gym will feature Life Fitness strength and cardio machines, a dry sauna, swimming pool, whirl pool, showers and locker rooms. The gym is lined with windows that look out onto the river and the cardio machines will also feature their own personal TV. Other amenities the Hyatt offers outside of the fitness facility includes Yoga Away — an On Demand TV option where guests can do yoga in their room. Yoga mats are available upon request, said Schatz.
“We also have GPS systems that guests can use if they are running or walking. It helps them find their way back, too,” he said. “A few people have used them already.”
Schatz added that not only are hotel gym facilities becoming more popular, so are large spas. Right now, however, the Jacksonville Hyatt doesn’t plan on adding a spa.
“Hotels are putting a big emphasis on nice, clean, well-lit facilities so guests feel comfortable,” he said. “Most hotels still have specific hours for the gym. But here you can have a late flight or meeting and still get to the gym.”
The new StayFit@Hyatt was something the company saw as a way for the customer to help control their experience at the hotel. Schatz said when customers are looking for a hotel, a gym and a pool are two items that people base their decisions on.
“It is a constant product from Hyatt to Hyatt. It is a program that has a local and national impact,” he said. “The company recognized the traveler’s needs for an upscale facility where they can control their experience instead of us.”
The Hyatt is planning on opening its new gym by Oct. 8.