Hilton LifeSpa pampers the mind and body

Those who have not passed by the fitness center and spa at the Jakarta Hilton International for a while should brace themselves for a shock to their system. But a most pleasant one at that.

Part of the Clark Hatch group, the center has changed with the times, adapting to a market which increasingly realizes the importance of both whittling down waistlines and buffeting beleaguered brain cells.

Its spacious, well-designed LifeSpa & Fitness Center fully meets the needs of the fitness conscious who also are intent on putting mind and body on an even keel.

Still to be found stalking its main exercise area are the Arnold-wannabes, pumping iron on state-of-the-art equipment in the quest to hone their buff bodies. But LifeSpa, as its name indicates, also caters to those who want to get hot and sweaty in the gym, and then let their cares subside with an old-fashioned pampering.

A well-trained army of 13 personal trainers are on hand to put the reluctant through their paces. A diverse range of fitness classes -- including the current celebrity-favorite Tae-Bo Thai boxing and traditional mainstays of step and low-impact aerobics -- also are available for the taking.

But the LifeSpa knows that all work and no play will leave Jack or Jill running on empty. After a tough workout or a harried day at the office, partaking of one or two of the LifeSpa's soothing and invigorating treatments are bound to put a new skip in one's step.

Consultant Brian J. Billdt acknowledges that LifeSpa is a calculated departure from the rigid fitness-only focus of the past.

"It used to be much more physical before, what I call the gung-ho macho philosophy, which maybe was a bit intimidating to some people," Billdt said in LifeSpa's plush lobby. "But in 1998, we realized there was a new trend toward relaxation, stress management, what is called the spa concept. And it appeals to more people."

LifeSpa manager Indah Koeswardhani said that only locally produced natural products are used in the treatments, which range from facials, manicures and pedicures, to enticing herbal baths, aromatherapeutic massage and body scrubs.

"We use them simply because they're of excellent quality and competitively priced," Indah said. "The trend today is really toward back to nature, and that is what we have to offer."

Getting back into shape after years of letting oneself go can be a daunting prospect, particularly for those juggling work and home commitments. Billdt emphasized that LifeSpa devises programs which fit individual needs.

"We look at what will work for the person, what are the things that they want to do," Billdt said. "We know that a fitness program will only be successful if it is something that the person wants to do, not that they have to do."

Amid Jakarta's traffic snarls in which making it from point A to point B can rank as a logistical nightmare, Billdt said membership in Clark Hatch -- and access to its various centers -- is an advantage.

"We have members who use a center near their office in Central Jakarta but work out at a South Jakarta center near their home on the weekends. It is much more convenient than having to make it to one center all the time."

The LifeSpa & Fitness Center offers various membership packages and is open to the public. It can be contacted at tel. 5703600, ext. 3404 and 3405. (Bruce Emond)