Prague has a wide range of fitness facilities, from large international chains to independent neighbourhood gyms and specialist studios. Prices are generally lower than in Western European capitals, and the quality of equipment at the better facilities is comparable to anywhere in Europe. This guide covers the main options across different categories, with honest notes on what each type of facility offers.
International Gym Chains
Several international fitness brands operate in Prague, offering standardised facilities and the convenience of multiple locations across the city.
Holmes Place
Holmes Place operates several clubs in Prague, typically in shopping centres and business districts. The facilities are well-maintained, with good cardio and weights equipment, group fitness classes, and swimming pools at some locations. Memberships are on the higher end for Prague, but the quality is consistent. A trial visit is usually available before committing.
World Class
Another premium chain with a strong presence in Prague. World Class clubs tend to have extensive equipment, spa facilities, and a wide class schedule. The atmosphere is professional and the clientele tends to be a mix of business professionals and serious recreational athletes. Pricing is similar to Holmes Place.
Municipal and Public Facilities
Prague's municipal sports facilities offer excellent value and are often overlooked by people who default to commercial gyms.
Plavecký Stadion Podolí
The Podolí swimming complex is one of the largest and most impressive public sports facilities in Central Europe. It has multiple outdoor and indoor pools, including a 50-metre competition pool, a leisure pool, and a diving area. Entry prices are very reasonable by European standards, and the facility is accessible by tram from the city centre. The outdoor pools are open in summer and the views over the Vltava valley are genuinely spectacular.
The complex also has a gym, sauna, and fitness classes. For swimmers, it is hard to beat anywhere in Prague for the combination of quality and price.
Strahov Athletic Complex
Located near the Strahov stadium in Prague 6, this complex includes an athletics track, indoor sports halls, and fitness facilities. It is primarily used by sports clubs and university athletes but is open to the public for certain sessions. The indoor track is useful for winter training when outdoor conditions are poor.
Independent and Specialist Gyms
Beyond the chains and municipal facilities, Prague has a growing number of independent gyms that cater to specific training styles.
Strength and Powerlifting Gyms
Several independent gyms in Prague cater specifically to strength training, with serious free weights areas, powerlifting platforms, and a no-frills atmosphere. These tend to be cheaper than the chains and attract a more focused training crowd. They are worth seeking out if you prioritise heavy compound lifting over cardio machines and group classes.
CrossFit Boxes
Prague has a healthy CrossFit community, with multiple affiliated boxes across the city. These are typically smaller, community-oriented facilities with coached classes. Drop-in rates are available for visitors. The quality varies, so it is worth visiting a class before buying a membership.
Yoga and Pilates Studios
The number of yoga and Pilates studios in Prague has grown significantly over the past decade. Vinohrady and Žižkov have a particularly high concentration of studios offering classes in English as well as Czech. Many studios offer introductory packages for new members.
Outdoor Workout Spots
Prague also has a number of outdoor fitness areas (workout parks) scattered across the city's parks. These typically include pull-up bars, parallel bars, and other bodyweight training equipment. They are free to use and are popular year-round with local residents.
Stromovka park, Letná park, and Divoká Šárka all have outdoor workout areas. The quality varies, but most are well-maintained and offer a genuine alternative to indoor training during good weather.
Tips for Choosing a Gym in Prague
- Most commercial gyms offer a free trial day. Use it before signing any contract.
- Monthly memberships without long-term commitments are increasingly available, which is useful if you are not sure how long you will be in the city.
- Check opening hours carefully. Some facilities have reduced hours at weekends or during Czech public holidays.
- For swimming, Podolí is the best value option by a significant margin. The queues at peak times (early morning and early evening) can be long, so aim for off-peak sessions if possible.
- Many gyms in Prague have English-speaking staff, particularly in the city centre and in facilities used by the expat community.