Nguyễn Trường Gym Nation: A Good Hot Sweaty Mess in Vung Tau Vietnam

Vũng Tàu, Vietnam

Nguyễn Trường Gym Nation is a straightforward, well-equipped training facility in Vũng Tàu.

Nguyễn Trường Gym Nation

Bình Giã, P.8, Vũng Tàu, Bà Rịa - Vũng Tàu

First Impressions: Old School Vibes with Modern Equipment

Walking in you are immediately greeted by a massive mural of bodybuilding legend Kai Greene - setting the tone for what this gym is all about. The space is well-organized, clean, although you might quickly notice the absence of air conditioning!

The Space: Functional and Focused

The gym layout is thoughtfully arranged and a large space that is fully maximized although an extra squat rack would make it a game charger and maybe some aircon. However the air conditioning is compensated (somewhat) by wall fans, though locals might have you sweating more than expected - the regulars prefer training without the fans on! And I must point out, the locals are quick to turn the fans off or make you feel inferior for even thinking you needed to turn the fan on in the first place. Sweat box heaven, just got with it, I say.. you will get use to it and when you arrive at the next gym that has air conditioning - Trust me you will appreciate it, ten fold!

Equipment: Comprehensive Selection

The gym offers a solid mix of modern and traditional equipment that caters to most training styles.

• Extensive range of cardio machines in good condition

• Well-maintained cable machines with full accessory sets

• Variety of plate-loaded machines

• One squat rack (prepare to wait during peak hours)

• Multiple leg machines for lower body focus

• Free weight area

• No deadlift platform or smith machine

Gym Pass Price

The Vibe: A Focused Training Environment

The atmosphere is friendly yet focused, with a mix of locals, expats and occasional travellers sharing the space. Despite the heat from minimal ventilation, everyone maintains a respectful training environment. The gym has a community feel where regulars and newcomers alike concentrate on their workouts without any preteens.

Communication: Basic English, Plenty of Gestures

Staff communication is primarily in Vietnamese, but basic gym etiquette and transactions can be handled through gestures and simple English. The universal language of lifting weights bridges any communication gaps.

Membership and Pricing

• Day Pass: 40,000 VND

• Weekly Pass: 200,000 VND

• Monthly Membership: 500,000 VND

Operating Hours: Check Google for current hours!

Monday to Saturday: 5:00 AM - 10:00 AM, 2:00 PM - 8:30 PM

Sunday: Closed

Lunch Break: 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM

Best Time to Visit: 5:00 AM - 7:00 AM (to beat the heat and crowds)

*check google or contact the gym to confirm pricing and opening hours (current at the time of writing this)

The Verdict

A genuine local gym experience that delivers where it matters most - in the quality and variety of equipment.

Pros:

• Exceptionally clean and well-maintained equipment

• Budget-friendly pricing

• Great selection of cardio and strength equipment

• Early morning hours for beating the heat

Cons:

• No air conditioning (challenging in Vietnam's climate)

• Limited operating hours with lunch closure

• Closed on Sundays

• Single squat rack can create waiting times

• No water fountain available

My Personal Experience

Training here reminded me why I love exploring local gyms. Despite the heat (and boy, was it hot, I was raining sweat down my face and off my chin at times!), we enjoyed our two weeks at this gym. The equipment quality surprised me, and the early morning session provided a perfect start to our day before retreating back to our AirBnB for breakfast and a nana nap (because who doesn’t love a nana nap and to me this is a sign of how much effort was applied in the gym to the degree of rest required after your workout and food intake) in some much needed aircon before venturing out again for an afternoon swim at the pool or beach and dinner.

Final Thoughts

Nguyễn Trường Gym Nation prioritizes function over luxury amenities. The equipment selection and maintenance are excellent, though the lack of air conditioning will challenge those unused to training in high temperatures. The reasonable prices and quality equipment make it a solid choice for maintaining your fitness routine while in Vũng Tàu.

Would I recommend it?

Yes, particularly if you're an early riser! Just come prepared with plenty of water and a towel. The gym offers good value for money with its well-maintained equipment and reasonable pricing. The heat is manageable if you plan your training time wisely. And if you are in walking distance to this gym, then most likely you are in walking distance to LOTTE Mart. And if you are, bonus content as I would highly recommend my daily routine listed above to anyone visiting this area. Gym, followed by breakfast, nana nap, LOTTE mart visit, swim, dinner = Repeat!

Location: Bình Giã, P.8, Vũng Tàu, Bà Rịa - Vũng Tàu 790000, Vietnam

Google maps: https://maps.app.goo.gl/6R72iWo3H2kzgoW17

Must dos:

Goes without saying.... but I will say it anyway. Bring your own towel, water (lots of it!), and always wipe the equipment after you have used it. And follow the inhouse rules always!

Scorecard Rating:

Just for the record... 5 stars don't come lightly! 

First Impressions	⭐⭐⭐
The Space	⭐⭐⭐
Equipment	⭐⭐⭐
Vibe	⭐⭐⭐
Pricing	⭐⭐⭐⭐
Final Thoughts	⭐⭐⭐

Stay strong, stay travelling, and never compromise on your fitness journey!