It's time to get your workout on. Starwood Hotels and Resorts announced this week that they are revamping the fitness studios at its Westin-branded hotels. WestinWORKOUT fitness facilities at 186 Westin hotels around the world are getting new equipment and blue light therapy throughout the course of the year.

New equipment we can understand - after all, people are pounding away on the machines all day long. But the redesign stems from Westin's in-house design team's studies of guest behavior that found Westin guests desired a more well-rounded, holistic fitness experience, including more options for stretching, yoga and fitness classes.

To capitalize on this trend, Westin is removing select pieces of equipment that guests were not using as frequently in order to provide more floor space for these types of activities. Don't worry, this won't include the treadmills! Pulley machines are also being added to smaller fitness studios to further maximize space and provide a greater range of workout options.

More natural design
The custom-created design of Westin's new fitness studio, a departure from the typical gym aesthetic, was also driven by the changing trends of how people work out. Instead of black rubber floors, the Westin design team chose to use a natural, soft-tone color palette and organic materials including textural woven flooring.

Inspired by nature, each fitness studio will also display a full-size art mural entitled "Step Up," a reflective image of people running up a grassy hill. We're not sure it will get us through this extra mile, but hey - it's better than a blank wall.

Look for the blue light
Westin worked with Philips to introduce ActiViva Lighting, Philips' new energizing fluorescent lighting, into its gym facilities. Supposedly their blue light technology positively influences well-being and will help to make guests feel more alert, awake and energized in target workout areas such as the cardio zone. Additionally, the lighting will be customized in all workout zones to coincide with the type of exercise taking place in each specific area.

More guest perks
In December 2010, Westin a partnership New Balance. The chain provides footwear, apparel and fitness program content to its guests to borrow. Later this year, the brand will also be expanding its in-room SuperFoodsRX menu items for breakfast to also include lunch and dinner options.

The gyms are currently open at Westin Jersey City, Westin Riverwalk, San Antonio, Westin St. Francis in San Francisco and the Westin Gaslamp Quarter in San Diego.

Filed under: Hotels and Accommodations