Fitness Studios

Moving up the cash ladder in fitness, one can choose from the trendier sports clubs throughout Frankfurt and the surrounding region. The great advantage of fitness studios is their flexible schedules and ultra-modern equipment (sometimes including a swimming pool and sauna), although many studios are not open for early morning workouts. Most clubs require a minimum membership of six or even 12 months, though some will let you have a free trial before signing up.

In addition, more and more fitness clubs offer "ladies-only" studios -- with free babysitting. Monthly rates range from 20 euros a month for a basic fitness studio to 100 euros for the luxury class. Because Frankfurt can be such a transient city, many fitness studios also offer day rates. Nearly every major community throughout the Rhein-Main region now supports a fitness studio, so the best way to find one that suits your schedule and budget is to consult the telephone directory and arrange for a trial visit. One word of caution: some fitness clubs do not allow you to bring your own water while working out. Instead, you are forced to purchase water from the fitness studio.

Golf

Germany's first golf course was built in 1899 in Bad Homburg by an Englishman, the appropriately named R. W. Duff. To this day, the golfing tradition in Hessen continues. With its hilly countryside and verdant landscapes, Hessen is ideal golfing country. More than 50 golf courses are now located in the state and several others are currently being planned or built. Golfing is becoming so popular that some clubs have a two to three-year waiting list. But many other clubs, particularly those located in more rural areas, are always on the prowl for new members.

Guests who meet certain conditions are welcomed on many courses, and equipment can be rented almost anywhere. In addition, a number of public golf courses have been built, and some private clubs now offer economical green fees and less restrictive membership guidelines. For more information, contact the Hessen Golf Association (Hessischer Golfverband) at www.hessischergolfverband.de or consult the major German golf portal at www.golf.de.