We are always on a quest to find the most upscale health club in the cities we research. For downtown Montreal, this top honor is a close call between MAA and Mansfield. Either club will please athletic-minded travelers, though MAA is the only gym of the two that has a lap pool. We also appreciate the onsite bistro's healthy menu. Like Mansfield, MAA offers top notch exercise equipment and myriad classes. The positioning of the cardio machines is rather "cozy," so be prepared for a bike or jog within arms reach of a fellow athlete. But, the built-in plasma televisions built into the cardio apparatus should help keep your mind off of your neighbor.
Upstairs, you'll find a fantastic selection of weight equipment, including our personal favorite, Hammer Strength free weight equipment. We also enjoyed the between-set distraction of peering over the railing at the cardio-burners below.
MAA has a much more relaxed admission policy than Mansfield, allowing anyone to come in for $30/day. (Some hotels get a reduced rate. Ask) There's also a significant list of reciprocal clubs with reduced or free access. Check out the website and see if your club is listed.
Swimmers get an option here, but if you have more than 2000 meters to swim, we would recommend a dip at the YMCA or the Olympic Park. That's because MAA's pool is only 18 meters. Four lanes mark the path from wall to wall with bottom stripes and floating lane lines. Kickboards, backstroke flags, and a pace clock are also available.
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