Staying Active in Vietnam: Sports, Fitness & Outdoor Adventures for Expats

Moving to Vietnam as an expat comes with a host of exciting lifestyle perks—one of the biggest being the sheer variety of sports and recreational activities available across the country. Whether you're based in the heart of Hanoi, the energy of Ho Chi Minh City, or the peaceful Vietnamese countryside, staying fit and active is both easy and accessible. From modern gyms to morning tai chi in the parks, Vietnam has embraced fitness culture in its own unique way.

In this guide, we explore the fitness options available to expats, digital nomads, and long-term residents looking to stay active while enjoying life in Vietnam.

Fitness Centres and Gym Memberships in Vietnam

Vietnam’s major cities are well-equipped with gyms and fitness studios that cater to a variety of preferences and budgets. Whether you're into lifting weights, joining spin classes, or want to dive into something new like Zumba or pilates, you’ll find what you’re looking for.

Some popular gym chains and facilities include:

• California Fitness & Yoga – A nationwide chain known for its full-service gyms and international-standard group classes. Many expats enjoy the flexible packages and range of locations.
• Herofit in Hanoi – A more local, cost-effective alternative with solid equipment and welcoming staff.
• MMA Gym Fitness Center in Da Nang – A go-to spot for those into boxing, kickboxing or mixed martial arts.
• Elite Fitness – A premium fitness club offering high-end facilities, group classes, and personal training.

Fitness classes in English can be hit or miss—some upscale gyms will offer multilingual instructors, but in many smaller studios, classes may be taught in Vietnamese. Still, many expats report that once you get used to the routines, the language barrier becomes less of an issue.

Outdoor Activities in Vietnam

Vietnam’s outdoor spaces are bustling with activity, especially early in the morning and around sunset. Locals prefer to exercise when the temperature is cooler, which makes dawn and dusk ideal for taking in the vibrant, social energy of Vietnam’s parks.

Here’s what you can expect outdoors:

• Public exercise parks – Found in nearly every city, these are equipped with free-to-use machines and are often lively with people doing group aerobics, dancing, and even tai chi.
• Badminton and football – Two of the most popular sports in Vietnam. Courts and open spaces are everywhere, and it's easy to join in.
• Đá cầu (shuttlecock kicking) – A traditional Vietnamese game similar to hacky sack but played with a feathered shuttlecock. Great for coordination and reflexes.
• Public swimming pools – Facilities like Van Thanh pool in Ho Chi Minh City or Bach Khoa in Hanoi are perfect for a refreshing workout and a way to meet others in the community.

Vietnam’s urban culture makes it easy to incorporate movement into your daily life, and the social aspect of group workouts is a fantastic way to bond with both locals and fellow expats.

Countryside Adventures and Extreme Sports

The Vietnamese countryside offers some of the best backdrops in Asia for outdoor sports, especially for nature lovers and adrenaline seekers.

If you're looking to break out of the city and explore, consider these weekend-friendly activities:

• Trekking – Head to the northern regions like Sapa, Ha Giang, or Mai Chau for dramatic mountain views, fresh air, and multi-day hikes.
• Mountain biking – Da Lat and Ninh Binh are popular among cyclists for their rolling hills and scenic routes.
• Kayaking and canoeing – Explore the rivers of Tam Coc or paddle through the majestic limestone karsts of Ha Long Bay.
• Surfing and kite surfing – Vietnam’s southern coastline is perfect for water sports. Mui Ne is a hotspot for surfing and wind-based activities.
• Scuba diving – Nha Trang and Phu Quoc offer great diving conditions with warm waters and a growing number of dive schools.
• Golf – Vietnam is rising in popularity as a golf destination. Top-rated courses include:
  • The Bluffs Ho Tram Strip
  • Montgomerie Links in Da Nang
  • Hoiana Shores Golf Club

Whether you prefer serene hikes or thrilling watersports, Vietnam’s outdoor offering is diverse and constantly expanding. Even better, most activities are affordable and beginner-friendly.

Community and Social Sports

Another advantage of being active in Vietnam is the strong community vibe. From casual meetups to structured leagues, it's not hard to find a group that shares your fitness interests.

Here are a few to check out:

• Vietnam Hash House Harriers – A social running club that organises runs (and post-run beers) around Hanoi and Saigon.
• Pickleball VN – A growing expat favourite. Social games are often open to beginners, and many venues now offer court bookings in English.
• Ultimate Frisbee & Football Leagues – Join casual or competitive teams in Hanoi, HCMC, and Da Nang. Great for meeting locals and expats alike.

Tips for Staying Fit as an Expat in Vietnam

• Start early: Mornings are the coolest time of day and the most popular for exercise.
• Bring appropriate clothing: Moisture-wicking, breathable fabrics are best for humid days.
• Stay hydrated: Always carry water—especially if you're outdoors.
• Use social media: Join local Facebook groups or expat forums to find events and fitness groups near you.

Staying Active Starts with Staying Protected

Being fit and healthy abroad isn’t just about movement—it's also about having the right protection in place if anything goes wrong. That’s why more expats are choosing Pacific Cross for Health Insurance for expats in Asia. From outpatient care to emergency support, having the right plan lets you explore and train with confidence.

Final Thoughts

Vietnam is a fantastic destination for anyone looking to balance an active lifestyle with cultural exploration. Whether you're sweating it out in a gym in Ho Chi Minh City, playing đá cầu in a Hanoi park, or paddleboarding off the coast of Da Nang, you’ll find plenty of ways to stay in shape while soaking up the local culture.

So lace up your sneakers, grab a yoga mat, or strap on a helmet—Vietnam is ready when you are.