This real-life Fred Flintstone gym offers a great workout in a unique environment
If you’ve ever researched Tulum, I bet the Jungle Gym came up. As soon as I saw the pictures of this Fred Flinstone-style gym with equipment made out of wood and stone, I knew I had to check it out. It was a must-do for my trip, and I’m definitely glad I went.
You may be wondering if the Tulum Jungle Gym is worth it. I visited their beach location for a workout and I am here to tell you that yes, it is worth the hype. Here is everything you need to know about the gym, plus some Tulum Jungle Gym photos so you can see what it looks like.
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Is Tulum Jungle Gym a real gym or is it just for Instagram photos?
I’ll start with this question since I’m sure it’s what you’re wondering. You’ve likely seen the Instagram photos, but is it actually a real gym? Yes, it is a real and legit gym! It is by far the most unique gym I have ever trained at and I definitely worked up a sweat. Coming here made my list of cool things to do in Tulum and I recommend checking it out.
The owners want everyone to know that while it is a unique and popular gym, it is a real gym. The Tulum Jungle Gym is not a place for Influencers to come and simply take photos. They want the gym to remain as authentic as possible.
In fact, they do not work with Social Media Influencers or allow any cameras inside the gym during regular hours except for cell phones. You aren’t even allowed to use a tripod with your smartphone.
As you would when going to any gym for a workout, don’t forget your water bottle. They have a water cooler there for refills, but you need to bring your own bottle.
What kind of equipment does the gym have?
You will find a lot of the same equipment that you would at any other gym. The difference is that this equipment is made out of wood, bamboo and stone. No matter what a 20lb dumbbell is made of, it still weighs 20lbs and will give you the same great workout. I can attest to this!
The in-town location also has wooden machines, including their new leg press. In keeping with their theme, they try and only have equipment that is made out of natural materials.
If you want more options regarding equipment, including machines, then you should visit the in-town location. It is 5 times larger than their beach location. They also have a large stretching area where they offer weekend yoga classes.
Where is the Tulum Jungle Gym located?
There are two locations; one is on the beach and the other is in the town of Tulum. The in-town location is conveniently located right on the main highway that runs through town. Access to the beach location is from the road via Ahau Hotel. Both will show up on Google Maps so it’s easy to find them.
The beach location is significantly smaller than the in-town location, which is over 2,500 square metres. While I did visit both locations, I only worked out at their beach location. I thoroughly enjoyed training while listening to the sound of the waves crashing along the shore.
Whether you choose to visit the beach or in-town location will depend on the type of workout you wish to do and whether or not the location matters. For me, I really wanted the beach gym vibes and experience and I am happy that I decided to work out there. Plus, when you’re done, you can run right into the ocean to cool down.
How far is the Jungle Gym from Cancun?
If you are staying in Cancun, the Tulum Jungle Gym is about a 2-hour drive south. There is no public transit that would take you that far, but there are private car services. Mayan Heaven is one such service that will take you round-trip from Cancun for $195.
If you are staying in Cancun and want to visit the Tulum Jungle Gym, I would suggest that you rent a car. It will be the most cost-effective way to get there and back. Plus, with your own vehicle, you can stop along the way and visit a cenote or two if you wish. Cenotes are magical places and their cool, fresh water is the ideal spot to cool off after a workout.
What to wear to work out at the Tulum Jungle gym
The beach location is one place where it is perfectly normal to work out wearing short shorts or a bikini and nothing else. The adage of ‘no shirt, no shoes, no service’ does not apply here. In fact, I would say it’s almost encouraged to train in bare feet.
A large portion of the ground is sand and I can attest to the fact that you will get a great workout on this uneven surface. I embraced being able to train without my running shoes. I mean, where else in the world can you train in a bathing suit and bare feet without getting strange looks?
Check out what to wear in Tulum for an ultimate guide on what to bring, pack, and wear for your Tulum vacation.
How much does the Tulum Jungle Gym cost?
The drop-in fee costs $30 USD at their beach location and $15 USD at the in-town location.
The in-town location is free to local Military, Police and Firefighters. It is also half-price to any visiting Military, Police or Firefighters with proof of identification. The beach location does not mention this same discount so I’m not sure if they offer it.
The Tulum Jungle Gyms are adults-only. You must be at least 16 years old to work out at both locations.
Who owns the Jungle Gyms in Tulum?
Partners Katie and Alistair started and co-own the Tulum Jungle Gyms. Their backgrounds lend to the fact that these gyms are legit and meant to give you a great workout.
Katie is a former gymnast, ironman triathlete and swimmer who also holds a black belt in kickboxing. If that isn’t enough, she is also qualified in both Thai and deep tissue massage. Oh and she’s also a yoga instructor. Whew!
Alistair is a former Royal Marine Commando (Green Beret) and military Physical Training Instructor for the Air Force. He designed all of the equipment in their gyms, which was made by local craftsmen. You could certainly say that these two eat, breathe and live fitness.
What do you think, would you work out at one of these Jungle Gyms in Tulum? If you are planning a trip to Tulum, be sure to check out these top tips for visiting Tulum as well as the best time to visit Tulum before you go. For even more photos of the Tulum Jungle Gym, check out the Tulum highlight on my Instagram.
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