Hilton Raises the Bar on Exercise Options for Travelers.

Americans Overwhelmingly Believe Exercise Gives Them "An Edge" Over Non-Exercisers

Staying fit while traveling just got personal. Starting today, guests staying at any participating Hilton Hotels & Resorts can request their own personal trainer to help them maintain or begin a fitness regimen. As part of the new Personal Performance Program, Hilton teamed with Bally Total Fitness (NYSE: BFT) to give guests access to more than 5,000 certified personal trainers across the country.

"Our surveys show that one-third of us would be more likely to work out when traveling if we had access to a personal trainer who could motivate and effectively train us," said Jeffrey Diskin, senior vice president - brand management & marketing for Hilton. "By teaming with Bally Total Fitness and its extensive network of certified personal trainers, we are able to provide guests that luxury and convenience almost overnight."

Along with dial-up access to personal trainers, guests at Hilton properties across the country can also checkout "mini-gyms," for use in the privacy of their guest room. The versatile workout kits include yoga mats, elastic exercise bands, resistance tubing, two sets of hand weights and a training guide developed by top Bally certified trainers specifically for the Hilton program.

"A large part of fitness involves getting into a routine," said Nikki Kimbrough, personal training expert for Bally Total Fitness. "Many of my clients who travel say that it's easy to fall off their workout schedules when on the road. So, anything that a hotel can do to make exercise more accessible or convenient goes a long way in helping people stick to their exercise regimens."

A more conducive exercise environment, along with supporting services and amenities has more implications than just fitness, according Hilton surveys. Out of 1,000 people surveyed, 80 percent believe those who exercise gain a slight or significant business edge over those who don't exercise.

"I think everyone would admit that exercise has value from a performance standpoint," said Carrie Haworth, a frequent traveler who logs more than 75,000 miles a year. "On the occasions I've found time to workout while traveling, I feel more alert and ready to take on the day. I feel like I get a jump on all those other people who are still just trying to wake up."

Personal training is one of the fastest growing segments of the fitness industry. According to the American Council on Exercise because of the demand for personal trainers, the number of trainers is expected to double in the next three to five years. "Anytime our hotels can provide guests something that is physically good for them, as well as something that can potentially increase their business performance, you know you've hit the sweet spot," said Diskin.