Men Seek Me Time At The Spa
by Charlotte Ashton
Based on an outdated stereotype, when you think of the spa, a retro image of the exhausted housewife or burnt out career women recharging their batteries with a massage or a manicure springs to mind. Today, that couldn´t be further from the reality of spa clientèle. Spas are no longer the reserve of ladies who lunch, then relax in a haven of lavender scented, pink chintz. In fact, in today´s spa emphasis is actually placed on creating a neutral gendered environment so that their market encompasses both men and women alike.
The overall perception of spas has changed enormously in society over the past few years. They used to be considered a place where you would go with the objective of coming out with an improved appearance. However they are no longer seen in such a superficial light nor as an indulgent experience but an essential part of dealing with wear and tear on the body when modern day to day living takes its toll. And as far as the word pampering is concerned that just isn´t enough anymore as according to their survey results,
International Spa Association (ISPA) President Lynne Walker McNees cites that “People continue to expect more from their spa visits than simply being pampered. They want results. More than 1 in 10 spa-goers treat spa-going as part of a larger health and wellness lifestyle.”
The concept of men hanging out at the spa is not an entirely new phenomenon. Champneys’ four UK resorts have been host to some of the biggest sporting household names for years such as Frank Bruno and the late George Best. Men, too, want to age well and live longer so they appreciate the importance of taking care of themselves in order to perform in areas of their life where vitality is needed.
Frank Bruno, the British boxing icon and a regular visitor to Champneys, comments, “Champneys is my best kept secret. As soon as you reach the driveway you know that you are entering paradise, I can spend up to 6 hours of a day relaxing and enjoying the first class facilities on offer; you are treated as an individual and the staff make sure that all your needs are met.”
But it´s not just sport stars who are in need of a little TLC, the effects of working long hours such as poor blood circulation from sitting at a computer all day or discomfort in the fingers and hands from excessive texting are just a couple of the reasons why men are heading for the spas for the specific tailored treatments that are on offer.
Julia Norton, Sales Director, Champneys Marbella comments “Our treatments tailored for men are extremely popular in the UK and we are sure that they will be just as popular in Marbella, if not more, given that a significant number of our clients will be golfers in this area”. Champneys range of men´s treatments include an Elemis IQ facial which is described as the ultimate overhaul for skin, perfect for those who spend a lot of time in an air conditioned office. The list of treatments available is endless from deep tissue massages to Hopi ear candles, a treatment designed to treat ear and sinus conditions that can also relieve stress related headaches. It doesn´t stop at the spa as Champneys boast a range of products for home use too. Any stigma attached to men indulging in what was once thought as women´s treatments has long died out.
Although according to 2007 ISPA Global Consumer Report “women continue to rule as spa goers” it just so happens that Champneys Marbella is located in one of the countries where men account for more than 40% of spa goers. Champneys Marbella is set to be a success in Spain where the outdoor culture and lifestyle lends itself to wellness and taking care of one´s self. About Champneys Marbella Spa Resort: Set within the hills of Marbella’s National Park this exclusive development boasts an idyllic location over looking the coast line of Marbella and Puerto Banus. Apartments and penthouses are available in the exclusive luxury resort combining the Champneys spa lifestyle and stunning climate of the Mediterranean. Prices start from €696,358 for 2 bedroom apartments. There are just two 2 bedroom penthouses available at €971,729 and €1,026,705. Also available are 3 bedroom 3 bathroom vast duplex suites with private pool, two parking spaces and two store rooms at €1,700,000.
For more information contact 01442 291200, email sales@champneysmarbella.com or visit www.champneysmarbella.com.
