There are so many excuses for skipping morning workouts that shabby showers rarely even make the short list. But on those mornings that do miraculously begin at the gym, it's crucial to pick a spot that makes getting ready for the workday a pleasant experience. These five Atlanta gyms are upping the ante with spotless facilities, spa amenities and more sweet perks that make the prospect of hitting the gym just a little bit brighter.
Exhale Spa
1065 Peachtree St. NE, Atlanta (inside Loew's). www.exhalespa.com
Exhale's midtown location, which offers nationally-acclaimed barre, yoga and cardio classes as well as a full gym, doesn't take the spa part lightly. Decompress in the steam room after a high-intensity cardio class, and stay worry-free for the whole morning routine with complimentary towel service, shower flip-flops, robes, razors and more amenities in the locker room. Ample hair dryers and curling irons are available for a quick primp and the aromatherapeutic products are always well stocked, whether it's shower and shaving gel, shampoo and conditioner or body lotion.
935 Marietta St., Atlanta. www.torqatl.com
Westside cycling studio Torq makes a pre-primp workout easy from start to finish, boasting spacious lockers, private showers and luxurious Malin + Goetz products at every turn. Towel service is provided along with blow dryers, Q-tips, bobby pins and deodorant, and their branded plastic bags ensure that sweaty gym clothes keep to themselves in a crowded bag.
Flywheel Buckhead
3063 Bolling Way NE, Atlanta. www.flywheelsports.com
Flywheel Buckhead revealed its snazzy new location in May, and the result is a chic, modern space with not only more bikes, but a vastly updated locker room. Multiple showers and a long mirrored countertop with hair dryers and other amenities spread about makes this a great space to get ready after one of the gym's intense cycling or barre classes. Providing the towels as well as citrus-smelling Bliss products keeps gym bags from dealing with spills or sopping wet towels, and the free fruit on the way out the door makes for a great last-minue breakfast or snack when time is tight.
Corepower Yoga
Various locations. www.corepoweryoga.com
There may be several reasons why this national yoga chain is expanding at lightning speed, but one of them is for sure: the locker room amenities are remarkably consistent, with Corepower's signature shampoo and conditioner along with clean, spacious rooms to change and get ready. The downside? Studio towels are available for use, but not free, so don't forget to pack a bath towel.
DEFINE
1833 Peachtree St. NE, Atlanta. www.definebody.com
DEFINE offers rhythmic cycling, muscle-toning "Body" classes and a shift in perspective in hammock-based yoga, but when the final stretch is over, this studio shows out on its showers. Malin + Goetz products, towel service and personal space to go through a hair and beauty regimen make this studio a keeper when timing is tight, and the low-key, welcoming vibe from the staff makes this studio all the more refreshing before (or after) a long day at the office or exciting date night ahead.
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