Rebuilding Strength, Body and Mind
Displacement uproots more than just a family’s address—it can disrupt routines, shake confidence, and erode both physical and emotional health. For families navigating the chaos of insurance claims, relocation, and uncertainty, wellness often takes a backseat. But here’s the thing: fitness isn’t just about toned muscles or cardio—it’s a lifeline. It helps rebuild a sense of normalcy, manage stress, and empower families during one of the most vulnerable chapters of their lives.
That’s where hosts come in. Temporary housing with access to fitness options doesn’t just meet a basic need—it offers dignity, comfort, and stability. This post explores how “fitness in temporary housing” can transform experiences for guests and unlock new value for hosts who care about making a difference.
Why Fitness in Temporary Housing Makes a Difference
Emotional and Mental Health Benefits
When life feels out of control, movement becomes medicine. Exercise is scientifically proven to reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression—two common outcomes of sudden displacement. It also helps regulate sleep and reintroduce structure when everything else feels unpredictable. For displaced families, mental health in temporary housing often hinges on opportunities to feel grounded and empowered, and fitness can provide that crucial anchor.
Physical Health and Family Wellness
Unfamiliar surroundings and disrupted routines can lead to sedentary behaviour—especially for kids. Without parks, playgrounds, or familiar outlets, energy can spiral into frustration. Providing simple fitness options encourages healthy routines, supports immunity, and keeps both children and adults active and connected. From stretching after a stressful day to group family walks, these small routines support big healing.
Supporting Recovery and Resilience
We’ve seen it firsthand: families rebuilding after disaster who found strength—not just metaphorically—through accessible fitness. One Sinistar guest shared how a resistance band and YouTube workouts became their “emotional reset button” during a six-week stay. Whether it’s restoring confidence after a medical emergency or finding calm in chaos, fitness helps guests reclaim agency.
Barriers to Fitness for Displaced Families
Even with good intentions, fitness can feel out of reach. Guests often lack access to gyms, don't know the neighbourhood, or simply feel too overwhelmed to seek out options. Transportation, childcare, or budget constraints make local fitness classes or memberships unfeasible. That’s where you, as a host, have immense power. By anticipating these hurdles and offering small, thoughtful amenities, you remove friction and create an environment that supports healing.
Fitness Amenities That Make a Property Stand Out
In-Unit Fitness Features
Think simple, compact, and accessible. Stocking your unit with yoga mats, resistance bands, or a kettlebell costs little but signals care. Smart TVs with pre-installed fitness apps—or simply a guide to YouTube workouts—create easy, low-pressure access to movement.
On-Site or Nearby Resources
Highlight walkable parks, local gyms, or nearby trails in your welcome binder or digital guest guide. Even better? Partner with local fitness providers for short-term guest passes or virtual sessions. A one-week trial to a nearby yoga studio could be exactly what a guest needs.
Family-Friendly Fitness Options
Offer a few movement-based board games, a basketball hoop, or even a Nintendo Switch with fitness games. Provide safe outdoor space where kids can run off steam while parents stretch nearby. These details turn your unit into a sanctuary for the whole family.
How Fitness Amenities Boost Host Appeal and Bookings
Want to stand out in a sea of listings? Offer something others don’t—wellness with heart. Fitness amenities signal intentionality and quality. They drive positive reviews and increase repeat bookings. Insurance adjusters and placement agencies often prioritise units that promote holistic well-being. By offering these touches, you're not just being generous—you're being strategic.
Simple Steps to Add Fitness to Your Temporary Housing
Starting small goes a long way. Begin with:
Basic Tier: Yoga mat, foam roller, resistance bands Mid-Tier: Smart TV with fitness app guide, adjustable dumbbells Premium Tier: Dedicated workout corner, treadmill, or bike
Include links or QR codes to beginner-friendly digital workouts. Use local resale platforms or wholesale suppliers for cost-effective gear. It’s all about removing barriers, not breaking your budget.
Helping Guests Heal, One Step at a Time
In temporary housing, the details matter. A pair of dumbbells, a stretch guide, or a map to the closest walking trail can shift a guest’s entire outlook. Fitness in temporary housing isn’t a luxury—it’s a bridge back to normal life. And hosts like you have the unique ability to build that bridge, one thoughtful amenity at a time.
For more tips on how to improve your space, view The Essential Host Guide: Host Tips to Help Property Owners Improve Their Spaces.