As you stand at the edge of your mat on the sand, your only focus is timing your breath to the sound of the nearby waves. The sun is just beginning to set over the water as your teacher guides you through a series of gentle yoga poses. Later, there will be time to think about work and deadlines, for now all you have to do is breathe. 
by Lauren Batey
Just one of the many options Curaçao offers visitors looking to stay active, restore their bodies and take time for themselves. Whether you are seeking a peaceful stroll along the coastal path at Koredor, an outdoor Bootcamp workout or an intense CrossFit challenge, Curaçao has something for everyone.
Many of the island’s hotels feature well equipped gyms as well as a variety of classes and personal training options. From Spinning to Yoga, Zumba to guided beach-side meditation, the island’s healthy living community is thriving. Water sports are extremely popular, and visitors are encouraged to step out of their comfort zones and try something new. Facilities and rental equipment are available for snorkeling, scuba diving, paddle boarding, surfing, wake boarding, jet skiing and parasailing to name a few.
If you’re looking for something a little more intense, the trainers of Bootcamp Curaçao welcome you three to four times a week in different well appointed outdoor locations on the island. You can work up a sweat in an awesome, fun atmosphere and beautiful surroundings. You’ll jog, swim, and crab walk your way through the class alongside your fellow sweaty participants. Their sessions are dynamic and varied to ensure you have both a great workout and a good time. You can learn more at www.bootcampcuracao.com.
Also for fitness devotees, longtime fans of the sport and curious visitors alike are welcome to join the community at Curaçao’s largest official CrossFit affiliate: CrossFit 5 Triple 9. Centrally located in downtown Otrobanda, the spacious facility provides both locals and tourists with constantly varied, high intensity workouts to challenge their bodies and improve their overall fitness. Each day offers a fun new challenge and can be scaled to accommodate everyone from beginners to elite athletes.
Bicycle riding has long been an important part of Dutch culture, a tradition which is represented by the island’s large and enthusiastic cycling community. Early weekend mornings often find the roads full of two wheeled enthusiasts. Curaçao also frequently hosts road races, charity walks, marathons and triathlons where crowds rally to support both local and international organizations. The largest annual event, Ride for the Roses, has been offering participants the chance to walk, cycle, swim or run to raise funds for the Princess Wilhelmina Cancer Foundation for over 10 years.
A large part of living your best life involves caring for both your body and spirit. This is a belief that is well represented on Curaçao by the variety of opportunities available.