Finding Fitness in Pho-bulous Hanoi Vietnam
- reefaulkner
- Jan 10
- 3 min read
Quarter, Hanoi, Vietnam
Ever wondered where fitness enthusiasts hide in the mazelike streets of Hanoi's Old Quarter? Well, I found TopGun Boutique Fitness, an underground gym that's literally and figuratively cool (well, as cool as you can get in Hanoi's heat!).
TopGun Boutique Fitness
Address: Old Quarter, Hanoi, Vietnam
Located Underground from: MK Premier Boutique Hotel
Address: 72 74 P. Hàng Buồm, Hàng Buồm, Hoàn Kiếm, Hà Nội, Vietnam
First Impressions
Walking down into this underground fitness bunker, the space is surprisingly modern and clean – a welcome contrast to the beautiful chaos of Hanoi's streets above.
The Space
This subterranean sweat sanctuary has some open space, despite its compact size. The air conditioning and fans are fighting the good fight against Hanoi's notorious humidity, but let's be real – you're still going to sweat buckets. Think of it as a bonus sauna experience at no extra cost!
Equipment
A solid lineup that'll get the job done for most fitness enthusiasts:
8 plate-loaded machines keeping things heavy
Deadlift platform and squat rack for the compound lovers
Smith machine for those who like to keep things on track
Full cable setup for all your pulling pleasure
Dumbbells up to 38kg (sorry, superheavyweights!)
Boxing area for letting out your street crossing frustrations
Dedicated yoga space for finding your Zen
The Vibe
You know I am going to suggest a good early morning, where it is possible it might just be you in the gym, the weights, and you as the master of the floor standing fan direction and speed. But as the day progresses and the beer street warriors emerge seeking redemption, things can get a bit... interesting. And unfortunately some folks treat the unspoken weight re-racking as optional art rather than the mandatory courtesy it is.
Communication
No bells and whistles here, just a friendly smile and easy entry. English communication is basic but effective.
Membership Pricing
Day Pass: 150,000 VND
Monthly Membership: 1,500,000 VND
Opening Hours: 5:30 AM 9:30 PM daily
Check Google or contact the gym to confirm pricing and opening hours (current at the time of writing this)
The Verdict
TopGun Boutique Fitness is like that reliable friend who might not blow your mind but won't let you down either.
Pros
Early opening hours for morning warriors
Clean and well-maintained equipment
Central location in the Old Quarter
Reasonable day pass pricing
Air conditioning (even if it's fighting a losing battle)
Modern equipment selection
Good bathroom facilities
Cons
Gets busy and hot later in the day
Some gymgoers treat weight re-racking as optional
Limited really heavy weights
Tourist vibe but gets the job done
My Personal Experience
Picture this: There I was, one morning, channelling my inner Marie Kondo, meticulously re-racking weights and organising the dumbbells. Feeling proud of my contribution to gym karma, only to have my husband send me a photo hours later showing complete chaos had resumed. Lesson here was: Just don't expect your weight re-racking efforts to start a revolution!
Final Thoughts
While TopGun Boutique Fitness might not be the most remarkable gym I've visited worldwide, it's a solid option for maintaining your gains while exploring Hanoi. The early morning hours are a blessing, and the equipment selection is more than adequate for a good workout.
Would I recommend it?
Yes, especially if you're staying in the Old Quarter and are an early bird! Hit it up before the sun (and the crowds) get too hot, and you'll have a perfectly good workout experience.
Location: Old Quarter, Hanoi, Vietnam
Google Maps: https://maps.app.goo.gl/zBDuEDiHwUH1kGzX6
Must dos
You know it goes without saying.... but I will say it anyway.
Bring your own towel, water and always wipe the equipment after you have used it.
Put your weights away and follow the inhouse rules always!
Stay strong, stay travelling, and never compromise on your fitness 🏋️♀️✈️
My tip: Your pre-work powder will not stand the humidity in South East Asia going clumpy very quickly, so skip packing this essential gym item and stop at the 7 Eleven on your way to the gym for the super strength liquid Red Bull. It is super cheap and works a treat for the workout buzz.
Scorecard Rating:
Just for the record... 5 stars don't come lightly!
First Impressions | ⭐⭐⭐ |
The Space | ⭐⭐⭐ |
Equipment | ⭐⭐⭐ |
Vibe | ⭐⭐⭐ |
Pricing | ⭐⭐⭐ |
Final Thought | ⭐⭐⭐ |
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