PERFECT positions
Whether you crave adventure or are seeking a fullblown health MOT, yoga retreats have evolved with the modern traveller in mind. Here’s where to free body and mind
MADE offers nine varieties of yoga
The well-equipped gym will give you a proper workout
The fitness one
MADE Wellness Centre, Staffordshire, UK
Think wellness centre, think tinkling water features, fluffy white robes, and that dreamy haze of essential oils. Er, no.
A retreat at MADE is every bit as arduous as its industrial structure would suggest.
A smoke-grey, Soviet-style barn houses a cycling cave, boutique gym, two treatment rooms, shop, café and functional studio, which opens on to an outdoor training terrace carpeted with artificial turf – so no slacking off if it rains. Built to replace the one-room gym at neighbouring Moddershall Oaks (where you can retire to the well-equipped spa), MADE is a gym bunny’s playground, with sunset yoga classes as your reward.
Kick off with an energising cacao and chia smoothie and a goji berry brownie in the chic café, before tackling a dynamic indoor cycling class. Blaring music, glowing lights and a floor-to-ceiling screen showing Ibiza party footage helps get the blood pumping. Refuel with fresh fare including activated-charcoal bagels topped with beetroot houmous, chickpea patty, carrots, rocket and cucumber; rye bread spread with smashed avocado, cherry tomatoes, chilli flakes and spinach; and a Buddha bowl of wild rice, broccoli, spinach, kidney beans, cashew nuts and peanut dressing.