Life Time Athletic has fitness clubs located all across the United States, but the facility at Sky in Manhattan is the only one located in a residence complex, according to Natalie Bushaw, senior director of public relations and internal communications at Life Time.
The striking 65,000 square-foot space was designed by the Rockwell Group and features resort-style amenities and cutting-edge programming. Life Time at Sky aims to serve New Yorkers who are seeking a destination that's beyond the traditional gym or club.
Bushaw described some of the more lavish amenities that are available. "The gorgeous, sought-after Sky Deck features two outdoor pools; it's fast become the place to be in the city."
But the Zero-Edge rooftop Infinity Pools are not just for fitness pursuits; they feature poolside beverage and cocktail service and a chef-driven menu from the onsite LifeCafe. Adjacent to the pools is a Thomas Balsley-designed space called The Park, offering outdoor entertainment and daybeds and benches for ultimate relaxation.
The pampering continues inside the club with relaxation spaces for meditation and escape, including a Turkish-style Hammam. There is a cold-plunge pool, whirlpool, lap pool, saunas and steam rooms. Besides a luxurious massage, you can get your hair, skin and nails cared for at the LifeSpa, all while your little ones are looked after at the Child Center.
More than 85 unique and boutique-style classes are offered weekly, taught by elite instructors in four different studios: yoga, Pilates, fitness and indoor cycling. There are free weights and equipment, basketball courts, and functional training and resistance training areas. State-of-the-art locker rooms feature free lockers and towels, Wi-Fi and plasma big-screen TVs.
When it comes to functional and training equipment, Bushaw said they use Technogym cardio and strength-based equipment almost exclusively. "We have a very strong and long relationship with Technogym." Recently, Technogym announced its cardio equipment is compatible with Apple GymKit, so users can tap their Apple Watch to UNITY, the Technogym-connected cardio products interface, to pair with the cardio equipment and track their indoor exercise.
And now, Life Time Athletic at Sky is the first to offer the Apple GymKit integration, so patrons can view accurate metrics on both their Apple Watch and machine, whether it's a treadmill, indoor bike, elliptical machine or stair stepper. The data will seamlessly sync once connected, and users can monitor speed, distance, active and total calories, incline and pace or floors climbed, with the information on the Technogym equipment matching what they see on their wrist. "We are very proud to introduce to the fitness and wellness industry this integrated and innovative experience with Apple Watch and excited to bring this to exercisers around the world," said Nerio Alessandri, Technogym founder and CEO.
Bushaw explained that while they're still gathering information on how the Technogym and Apple GymFit integration is being received, the initial response has been very positive. "Technology has become an expected part of our healthy lifestyle inside and outside of Life Time."