Since we left the Japanese countryside, I have really done very little exercise and have been inactive for way too long. It was clear that sitting at a desk all day and drinking a lot of beers on the weekends was not a sustainable lifestyle to have. Some changes were long overdue.I have never really been interested in going to the gym and would always prefer the chance for outdoor activities such as hiking, skiing, cycling etc. However, my favourite activities are not possible in Tokyo, at least to the standard I would prefer. The prospect of a busy Tokyo cycle path is far from appealing and would in no way satisfy me.
As a result, I have been left with no other option but to join the local gym, called Rondo. I would never claim to love going, but it is tolerable and I doubt whether many other gyms can be as good. I am certainly a satisfied customer and try and go about 3 times a week.I usually just try and use some of the exercise machines, although I occasionally go to one of the two swimming pools. The machine which I have really come to like is the cross-trainer. Great exercise with no impact on the joints.
Some of the facilities on offer are:
- Climbing wall
- Large exercise machine room
- Two swimming pools
- Outdoor jacuzzi
- Tennis courts
- Squash courts
- Golf driving range
Rondo certainly appears to be a very successful business. During the daytime, most customers appear to be senior citizens in their mid-60s. After 6pm, the clientele changes to businessmen and women who are trying to exercise after a busy day in the office and an unpleasant train journey home.
I hope I can continue my exercise regime long into 2012.
