Escapes: take your fitness to a new level - Getfit

Sometimes the best way to get in shape is to get out of the gym. Equinox Fitness Clubs is offering active vacations in close-to-home destinations like Red Mountain Spa in St. George, Utah, as well as faraway locations such as Costa Rica, Machu Picchu and the Galapagos Islands through its new travel program, Trip Equinox. "Anyone can kick up her conditioning level a notch by taking her workouts outdoors," says Equinox travel consultant Rhonda Smith. And you don't have to be an Equinox member to sign up.

On these three- to 14-day vacations, you can do everything from hiking and biking to rafting and kayaking -- or just relax. "All the trips offer opportunity and flexibility," Smith says. Still not convinced you'll be able to make it through one of these excursions? Once you sign up, Equinox's top trainers offer pre-trip home and gym conditioning tips so you feel confident outdoors. Cost: from $1,000 (domestic trips) to $4,000 (international), including top-notch accommodations, food and equipment (airfare not included; 212-774-6318, equinoxfitness.com).

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