Working Out at Saratoga Springs Resort in Walt Disney World

For some reason, I tend to want to work out on vacation. I have no clue why. When I am home, between the long commute to and from work, and, well...work, I tend to park my butt on the couch in the evenings. But when I'm on vacation, I'm a work out goddess.

Saratoga Springs Resort offers multiple workout options. The most obvious, and the one I checked out first, is the Fitness Center. This mini-gym is located in the same building as the Spa, by the Carriage House and the High Rock Springs pool. The Fitness Center is open from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. every day, and is available for the resort guests at no extra charge. You will need your room key in order to use the facility. As you come in through the main door of the spa, check in with one of the staff - they will make you sign in. Also, remember that kids under 14 are not allowed in the center, and that everyone ages 14 through 18 needs to be in the company of an adult.

The use of treadmills, elliptical machines, and stationary bikes is limited to 30 minutes, to accommodate other guests. I should mention here that the machines look new - but since the resort just opened in 2004, I wouldn't have expected any less. The cardio machines face three television sets - you can set your FM tuner to the designated station to hear the audio, or you can get a headset at the check-in desk. The fitness center streams upbeat music, which is good and loud enough so I didn't have to bring out my iPod.

Behind the cardio machines, there is an area with floor mats and free weights. You can do your own things here. The free weight benches face floor-to-ceiling mirrors, which helps in monitoring your form. There are no time limits assigned to this area. So take your time but, obviously, be respectful of other attendees.

On the opposite side of the floor are stationary muscle building machines. There seems to be two of each, from what I can tell. From the bicep curl to the abs crunch, there are enough stations to work out practically every muscle in your body.

Toward the entrance, you will find a scale and a chart on the wall that indicates ideal BMIs. If you are brave, go right ahead and step on the scale. I'll wait over here in the corner.

The fitness center offers complimentary towels. Pick them up on the shelves as you walk into the center, and drop them of in the wicker hampers as you walk out. If you forgot to bring water, you can buy a bottle as you check in (not sure of the cost).

The fitness center is nice (very tidy, actually) and tends to be empty early in the morning. Take the time to stop in at least once, even if you just sneak a peak. That way you can say that you went to the gym.

For additional details on visiting Walt Disney World, please check out my "Walt Disney World Travel Series" articles.