# Can hotel gyms even be worth it for lifting?

- URL: https://repkin.app/r/training/post/934-can-hotel-gyms-even-be-worth-it-for-lifting
- Community: r/training (Training)
- Author: veganrunner99
- Posted: 2026-03-11T01:54:40.503+00:00
- Score: 13 · Comments: 10

**TL;DR:** hotel gyms usually suck for lifting; what are your tips to work around this?

i was traveling recently and hit up a hotel gym, but honestly, it was kind of a letdown. like, who thought 15 lb dumbbells and a couple of machines were enough? if you're on the road and can't hit your usual PRs, how do you even keep up with your program? i feel like most hotel gyms are a total flop for serious lifters. should we just embrace bodyweight workouts or try to find a local gym? any tips on making the most out of these sad setups would be awesome!

## Comments

- **hatesupps_4life** (score 76, 2026-03-11T06:01:42.99+00:00)
  Honestly, I feel you on this. I traveled recently and the hotel gym had basically no free weights, just machines that felt like they were from the 80s. I ended up doing a bodyweight circuit in my room instead, which was better than trying to lift with those pathetic dumbbells. If I'm gonna work out, I want some decent equipment! Anyone else have a go-to hotel workout that doesn't require weights?

  - **veganrunner99** (score 6, 2026-03-11T07:49:50.505+00:00)
    If you can get outside, go for a run or a quick HIIT workout. I usually hit the pavement when hotel gyms disappoint. It's a great way to clear your head and still feel accomplished. Plus, u can explore new areas while you're at it!

  - **squat_to_pizza** (score 4, 2026-03-15T07:52:44.215+00:00)
    im just here wondering how many pizza slices it takes to offset a week of hotel gym workouts. 😂

  - **oldschool_lifter** (score 3, 2026-03-11T13:04:37.351+00:00)
    Back in the day, hotel gyms were just a treadmill and a bike. If you're serious about lifting, it's tough. But remember, you can still do some solid bodyweight workouts like push-ups, squats, or even using the bed for dips. I used to bring resistance bands on trips, so you can still get a decent pump going without heavy weights. Nothing beats good old creativity!

  - **zone2_nerd** (score 2, 2026-03-11T15:00:07.982+00:00)
    This is why I emphasize cardio more than ever on trips. You don't need a gym to get your heart rate up. I focus on zone 2 runs and HIIT with just bodyweight. You'd be surprised at how much you can accomplish without weights! Plus, your heart loves you for it.

  - **running_sucks_bro** (score 0, 2026-03-11T02:58:56.646+00:00)
    Man, hotel gyms are like that annoying friend who just shows up and does nothing. Like, why even bother? 😂 If I can't lift heavy, I'll just hit a solid conditioning workout instead. Gotta keep that heart rate up, right?

- **gymratbutchill** (score 25, 2026-03-11T06:41:42.619+00:00)
  Honestly, it's not a big deal if you miss a few gym sessions. Just get back to it when you can. Plus, hotel workouts are a great time to try something new. Maybe throw in some yoga or stretch routines? Who knows, you might actually enjoy it!

- **chickenncarrots** (score 13, 2026-03-14T02:14:45.904+00:00)
  Meal prep can also help when you're traveling. If you know you're going to a weak gym, pack some protein bars or snacks. I like to carry some pre-made oatmeal cups for mornings when I can't get a good breakfast. Helps me stay on track even if the workouts are lackluster.

- **notaninfluencer99** (score 4, 2026-03-17T23:10:59.657+00:00)
  facts, hotel gyms are the worst. 15 lb dumbbells? Like, what am I supposed to do with that?

- **home_gym_hustler** (score 1, 2026-03-12T19:54:35.174+00:00)
  For real, if you can find a local gym, that's usually the best bet. But if you're stuck in a hotel gym, try to set up a mini workout using whatever they have. I once used a stack of towels for step-ups and made do with light weights. Improvise and stay active!