Wellness resort BodyHoliday St Lucia has unveiled a star-studded lineup of athletes for its 2025 fitness programmes – including a homegrown Olympic gold medallist. Olivia Palamountain reports

Operating for more than 30 years, BodyHoliday St Lucia has established itself in the wellness and fitness holiday sector by offering guests access to professional athletes and wellness experts as part of their stay. For nine months of the year, the resort runs specialised feature months focusing on different aspects of fitness and wellbeing.

Julien Alfred, the island's first Olympic gold medallist from the 2024 Paris Games, will lead its WellFit programme for one week in summer 2025.

The resort, which now welcomes guests aged 12 and above, has positioned itself as a destination for families seeking shared wellness experiences. Its all-inclusive offering includes daily spa treatments, various fitness activities, personal instruction for all sports, water sports and nightly entertainment.Stays at BodyHoliday start from US$363 per night for one person in a Solo Garden View room, including all meals (with some premium dishes at a supplement), premium drinks, and champagne by the glass.

EXCLUSIVE OPPORTUNITY TO TRAIN WITH JULIEN ALFRED

Dates TBC

BodyHoliday’s guests will have the exceptional opportunity to meet and train with Julien Alfred, St Lucia’s first Olympic gold medallist from the 2024 Paris Games, as she joins BodyHoliday St. Lucia as its exclusive partner in 2025. This once-in-a-lifetime experience allows guests to connect with a world-class athlete in an intimate and inspiring setting, as Alfred stays at the resort to lead personal training sessions during a dedicated week (dates to be announced shortly).

SPRING SAIL

Best for the water enthusiasts, March 25 – April 19, 2025

Spring Sail caters to water enthusiasts of all levels, offering a range of sailing sessions. Whether guests are beginners or seasoned sailors, they can learn from two former Team GB Olympic sailors, James Peters - nominated for BBC Young Sports Personality of the Year at age 16 - and Luke Patience – silver medallist at the 2012 London Olympics - and participate in exciting activities like competitive races and time trials. The Wellness Centre complements the experience with tailored treatments for sailors, including post-sail massages and sun care therapies.

JUNE JIVE

Best for the dancers, June 2-22, 2025

June Jive invites dance enthusiasts to immerse themselves in various styles, from Salsa and Tango to Merengue and Zumba. With 19 classes offered each week, this vibrant month provides a dynamic way for guests to stay fit while enjoying the joy of dance in a lively, social atmosphere. Leading the sessions are Stefanie Renee Salyers, a professional dancer currently on tour with the Tony Award-winning Broadway show Moulin Rouge, and Bojana Matic BoBadu, a professional ballerina, ensuring guests learn from the very best in the field.

WELLFIT TRIBE

Best for Family Bonding, June 30 – August 24, 2025

WellFit Tribes is designed to bring families together through fitness and bonding activities. Led by Jade Jones, Team GB's youngest Olympic Champion in 2021 in Taekwondo, Ashleigh Nelson, British sprinter, Kadeena Cox, Team GB Paralympian and four-time Olympic Champion, and Brooks Vaughn Curry, American swimmer and Olympic gold medallist, this programme offers family-friendly workouts and team-building challenges that encourage health, unity, and fun for all ages.

SEPTEMBER SOLOS
Best for the solo Travellers, September 1-26, 2025

September Solos is crafted specifically for solo travellers, featuring a range of fitness classes, hosted dinners, and social activities aimed at fostering new connections. Perfect for individuals seeking a wellness retreat, this programme includes expert-led sessions led by Breeja Larson, who clinched the coveted Olympic Gold as an integral part of the 4x100 Medley relay team, proudly representing the United States, and Desmond Clark, former NFL player turned distinguished global motivational speaker specialising in leadership and team development. This makes September Solos an ideal escape for those focused on personal growth and creating meaningful connections.

OCTOBA YOGA
Best for the Yogis, September 29 – October 31, 2025

In October, BodyHoliday transforms into a sanctuary for yoga enthusiasts. Guests can participate in various styles, including Hatha, Ashtanga, and Katti yoga, as well as meditation sessions. The retreat is suitable for all levels, from beginners to advanced practitioners, and features yoga classes led by Briony Fisher, the yoga teacher at Premier League football club Brighton and Hove Albion, and Dr. Rebekah Jade, a London-based medical doctor, yoga teacher, and wellness founder known for blending medical science with holistic wellness and traditional practices. Therapeutic treatments at the Wellness Centre further enhance relaxation and healing, making this retreat a comprehensive wellness experience.

PRE-CHRISTMAS RESTORATIVE BREAK
Best for a Pre-Festive Season Detox, December 10-21, 2025

BodyHoliday’s Pre-Christmas Restorative Break, led by World Champion Sprinter Donna Frazer, prepares guests for the festive season with a focus on relaxation and rejuvenation. This retreat is designed to refresh and recharge, ensuring participants feel renewed and ready to enjoy the holidays.