Whether you’re on TDY, in the middle of a PCS, or just on vacation with your family, the disruption of your normal fitness routine can make it difficult to maintain your goals. But maintaining a fitness routine isn't just about physical readiness or passing the next ACFT—it’s about mental clarity, stress reduction, and feeling like yourself even when you’re living out of a suitcase.
At IHG Army Hotels, we understand that our guests are often in transition, so we’ve written this guide to staying active, energized, and healthy during your stay. Whether you’re working out in your guest room, at the base gym, or in the great outdoors, you don’t need specialized equipment or a long block of time to stay on track—just a commitment to making the most of the resources you have available to you.
The Power of the In-Room Workout
Sometimes the hardest part of working out is simply getting to the gym. On those days when your schedule is packed with briefings or your family is exhausted from a long day of house hunting, the guest room is your best asset. You don’t need much space to get a high-quality, heart-pumping workout.
The No-Equipment Circuit
Bodyweight exercises are the gold standard for travelers. They require zero gear and can be scaled to any fitness level. Try this 20-minute AMRAP (As Many Reps As Possible) circuit:
- Air Squats (20 reps): Keep your chest up and weight in your heels.
- Push-ups (15 reps): If you’re fatigued, drop to your knees or use the edge of the desk for an incline push-up.
- Alternating Lunges (20 reps): Focus on a 90-degree angle in both knees.
- Planks (45 seconds): Keep your core tight and back flat.
- Mountain Climbers (30 seconds): Drive those knees to your chest to get your heart rate up.
Fitness Centers at IHG Army Hotels
Most IHG Army Hotels offer on-site fitness centers designed to meet the needs of our guests. These facilities are often available 24/7, providing a convenient alternative to on- or off-post gyms with limited hours.
Efficient Strength Training
If your hotel gym has dumbbells, focus on compound movements that work multiple muscle groups at once. Exercises like dumbbell thrusters (a squat into an overhead press), renegade rows, and goblet squats provide maximum impact with minimal equipment.
Interval Cardio
If you only have 15 minutes on the treadmill, don't just walk at a steady pace. Try High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT). Sprint for 30 seconds, then walk for 60 seconds. Repeat this ten times. You’ll burn more calories in a shorter period and keep your metabolism elevated, long after you’ve returned to your room.
The Ultimate On-Post Perk: MWR Fitness Centers
While many IHG Army Hotels offer convenient on-site gyms, staying on an Army installation also gives you access to Morale, Welfare, and Recreation (MWR) Fitness Centers.
These aren't your typical gyms. MWR facilities are world-class training centers designed to keep you mission-ready. Depending on the installation, you might find:
Olympic-Style Training: Facilities like the Tucker Performance Enhancement Center at Fort Bragg offer platforms for Olympic lifting, plyometrics, and agility training.
Aquatics and More: Many centers feature indoor pools for lap swimming, saunas for recovery, and even indoor climbing walls to change up your routine.
Functional Fitness Zones: Look for TRX Tactical Training Boxes, kettlebell stations, and turf areas perfect for HIIT or functional movement training.
If you are an active-duty service member, reservist, retiree, or a DoW civilian with a valid ID card, these facilities are generally free to use. Many MWR centers also allow authorized visitors to bring up to two guests—perfect if you’re traveling with family or colleagues who don't have their own ID.
Exploring the Installation: The Great Outdoors
One of the unique benefits of staying at an IHG Army Hotel is our locations. Being on a military installation means you have access to outdoor facilities that are fitness-friendly.
Running and Walking Trails
Almost every major installation features running paths and multi-use trails. These are often marked with mileage indicators, making it easy to track your distance.
- Rucks: If you brought your gear, a ruck around the parade field is a staple of Army life and an efficient workout.
- PT Routes: Most posts have a standard two-mile out-and-back, multiple-lap, or large loop PT route like Riley’s Loop Trail at Fort Riley.
Local Parks and PT Fields
Don't overlook open grassy areas or PT fields. These areas are perfect for sprints, burpees, or even a game of catch with the kids. Many installations also feature fitness trails equipped with stationary exercise equipment like pull-up bars, sit-up benches, and balance beams.
Taking it Off-Post: Local Hiking and Recreation
When you have some free time, take the opportunity to explore the local area. Many Army installations are located near impressive natural attractions.
- Mountain Views: Staying at Fort Carson or Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson? You have world-class hiking right in your backyard.
- Coastal Trails: If you’re at Fort Stewart or Joint Base Lewis-McChord, look for coastal paths and state parks that offer beautiful scenery while you get your steps in.
- National Parks: Many posts are just a short drive away from one or more of the country’s national parks, offering everything from easy fitness loops to strenuous climbs.
The most important thing to remember is that staying active while traveling doesn't have to be all or nothing. If you can’t get in a full hour at the gym, take ten minutes to stretch. If you can’t find a hiking trail, take the stairs instead of the elevator.
At IHG Army Hotels, our mission is to provide a comfortable, supportive environment for those who serve. We take pride in being a part of your journey, whether it’s for a few nights or a few weeks. When you check in, ask our team about the best local walking paths or the hours for our fitness center. We’re here to help you make the most of your stay.
(c) 2026 IHG Hotels & Resorts. All rights reserved. IHG Army Hotels properties are independently owned by Rest Easy LLC, a Centinel Public Partnerships company, and operated by an affiliate of IHG. No DoW, US Army or federal government endorsement implied. For information on Centinel, visit CentinelUS.com.