Surabaya's Gym: Half Sauna, Half Diving Paradise?
qponx
2026-02-01
Discover Surabaya's Atlas Sports Club, a gym of stark contrasts. While the weight room can feel like a sauna with its old equipment and limited AC, the real star is the pristine swimming pool area. Featuring indoor and outdoor pools plus a Jacuzzi, it's a swimmer's dream. With an affordable, no-contract monthly pass, it's a unique spot for travelers and locals alike—if you can handle the heat and vintage charm of the gym.
Just flew from Bali to Surabaya, wanted to find a place to lift weights and get back in shape, and almost got"heatstroke" on the spot... Anjay! The heatwave as soon as I entered the gym, I thought the air conditioning was broken, but it turns out they turn off the AC during specific hours[1], a direct physical deterrent. This move completely stunned me. 🥵
It's like heaven and hell, that's what this place is
To be honest, this Atlas Sports Club is really big, and the equipment is quite comprehensive[2], from cardio to strength training, they have everything. But guys, it's really old... Some treadmill screens are black[3], the locker doors in the changing room are almost falling off[4], it has the vibe of an old state-owned enterprise bathhouse, making me feel like I've gone back 20 years[5].
BUT！ When I grumbled my way to the pool area, I instantly shut up. Wow, this pool is so well-maintained![6] The water is super clean, they have both indoor and outdoor pools, and there's even a Jacuzzi where you can Nongkrong! People swimming here are serious about exercising, not just playing in the water, the vibe is Mantap! 👍
So, is it worth it?
To be honest, this old club feels a bit like a fading hero. A single entry fee is around 40-50k IDR, and the monthly fee is about 400-500k IDR[7]. If it's just for using that stuffy gym, I think it's a bit of a loss. But its hidden gem is that you can pay monthly, no long-term contract needed! For people like us who travel a lot, or are just staying in Surabaya for a short period, it's simply a godsend, isn't it!
Tips to avoid pitfalls, take it, no need to thank me!
Alright, I've highlighted the key points for you girls, if you want to go, take notes ✍️:
- Want to lift weights? Either go early in the morning or in the evening. Definitely don't go to the gym between 10 AM and 3 PM, it will make you experience what"sweating buckets" truly means.
- Good news for introverts: After 4 PM is peak hour[8], it's super crowded, if you want some peace and quiet, avoid this time.
- Going for a swim? Then don't hesitate, just go for it! The pool area is definitely the star attraction here, the experience is top-notch.
- Weird rule: Don't bring your own water bottle to the pool, they don't allow them inside[9], a bit of a mysterious operation... You can only drink your fill outside before entering.
- Princes and princesses, please steer clear: If you're particular about the newness/oldness of facilities, enter with caution, after all, the equipment and changing rooms are genuinely old, don't expect too much.
- Beyond old gym gear [1], find a pristine indoor/outdoor pool oasis [2]! Sparkling water, Jacuzzi, killer vibes.
- Short stay? Pay monthly (400-500k IDR [3]), no contract. Cheaper than single entry [4]!
- Challenge seeker? Gym physically deters [5] you by killing AC at times, for a 'sweat-drenched' [6] hardcore burn!
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