Gym Time: Oasis, Epic, and Nieuw Amsterdam

I believe that the single most important feature on any ship is the workout facilities. This is an area where every passenger must share not only equipment but also a common desire to exercise while out at sea. This is the first article of the Gym Time series that will focus on the gyms and workout facilities that are available to cruisers.


The first three ships we will be taking a look into are Royal Caribbean's Oasis of the Seas, Holland America's Nieuw Amsterdam, and Norwegian Cruise Line's Norwegian Epic. The details of the workout facilities which I will be covering are the Cardio Machines, Resistance Machines, Free-Weights, Classes, and other athletic features.
 
Pictured Above, Royal Caribbean's Oasis of the Seas Spin Room.

Oasis of the Seas

Oasis offers 158 cardio and resistance machines, which turns into a ratio of about one machine per 40 cruisers. As for free weights, Oasis has a single set of dumbbells which offers about 20 pairs of various weighted dumbbells, a handful of empty benches and one squat rack. The fitness classes which Oasis offers include yoga, Pilates, kickboxing, spinning and Kinesis. Other athletic features that are available on the Oasis are a large basketball court, ice skating rink, rock climbing wall, lap pools, and a 680m track which is conveniently placed on a lower level so runners will not interfere with any other features on the ship. Overall I was very impressed with the workout facilities aboard the Oasis.

Norwegian Epic

The Epic offers 37 treadmills and 18 cross training machines bringing her amount of cardio machines up to a total of 53, making it about 1 cardio machine per 90 passengers. Epic also offers about 20 resistance machines for various exercise along a standard array of free weights including a few barbells and a benches. As for additional athletic opportunities you have the option of a squash court, jogging track, tennis court, and a basketball court. For higher classes passengers staying in Epic's Villas, you will have accesses to your own private gym.

Nieuw Amsterdam 

Boasting the largest gym ever on a Holland American's ship, the Nieuw Amsterdam offers many various workout opportunities. Precor elliptical trainers, treadmills and stationary bikes highlight her cardio options. While a Volleyball Court, Basketball courts, jogging tracks, and Aerobic Classes will offer some sort competitive fitness adventures.