Belonging to one of those luxe spa-gyms – where you never wait for treadmills, wear flip-flops in the shower, or have to bring your own shorts – comes at a far-from-lean price. Initiation fees can exceed $2500, and a tryout visit is about $40. But S&B has arranged for you to go once for free. Pick a club, bring this page, and enjoy blissful, hassle-free exercise and pampering. (For a treat, splurge on a spa service.) This offer’s good before May 15 for one visit only.
(Note: Bring only the S&B page from the MAGAZINE; print-outs of this web page will NOT be honored.)
The Sports Club/LA, the newest of these hotspots (from the owners of the Reebok Sports Club), has loads of classes (five styles of yoga, alone) and a huge, sunny gym. For you, they’ll throw in a $25 gift certificate toward treatments at their Splash spa (try a body scrub for $90). End the day in the steamroom or the bar. 45 Rockefeller Plaza (212-218-8600).
The Peninsula Spa has a glass-enclosed pool, hot tub, and sunning terrace, plus the usual equipment. Reward yourself with a pedicure in special massage chairs ($45) or a trip to the best rooftop bar in town. The hitch: You can only go between nine and five and must reserve beforehand (they’ll take ten S&B readers per day). 700 Fifth Ave., at 55th St., 21st floor (212-903-3077).
The Sports Center at Chelsea Piers is heaven for true activity nuts – you’ll find a rock wall, sand volleyball, three basketball courts, a pool, a boxing ring, and a juice bar on top of the usual facilities. There are also golf, bowling, and skating facilities elsewhere in the complex ($7-$20 admission), as well as a yummy sushi bar for lunch. Pier 60, West Side Highway, at 23rd St. (212-336-6000).
Away Spa*Gym, a soothing midtown oasis, has an amazingly zen atmosphere and tons of sparkling machines that more than make up for the absence of fancy amenities like a pool or sunning terrace. To truly unwind, try a soak in the colortherapy tub ($60 for thirty minutes). Addicted? S&B readers get 70 percent off the $1000 initiation fee (see Tony). W Hotel, 541 Lexington Ave., at 49th St., fourth floor (212-407-2970).
Picks of the Week
Tufi Duek’s sharp spring designs – perforated leather skirts, photo-printed Tees, teeny silky halter tops (as seen at Barneys and Language) – are 60- 80 percent off at the sample sale, from $38 for tank tops to $240 for leather motocross jackets. Shoes are $55. 530 Broadway, tenth floor at Spring St. (212-925-8277); A.E., M.C., V., checks; Thurs. 9-8; 4/13.
Elizabeth Gillett’s wraps, scarves, and sexy tops are at least 60 percent off at the sale. Trendy printed neckerchiefs are $16, crocheted ponchos and crystal-beaded organza wraps are $45, assorted tops are $25-$129. 237 W. 35th St. (212-629-7993); M.C., V.; Thurs.-Fri. noon-7; 4/13-4/14.
Maria Turgeon’s trendy, youthful handbags and other leather accessories (at stores like Scoop and Bond 07) are half off at the sample sale. Prices are from $20-$35 for small clutches and cosmetics bags to $110 for faux-python totes. 153 W. 27th St. (212-229-0077); cash only; Wed.-Fri. 10-6; 4/12-4/14.
Carla Westcott and Heidi Weisel once again team up for a joint evening wear sample sale. You’ll find sleek, simple gowns and separates (sold at stores like Barneys for up to 90 percent off, from $100-$300. Sizes 4-14. 530 Seventh Ave. at 39th St., 20th floor (768-9794); checks accepted; Fri. 8-7; 4/13.
AEFFE is clearing a showrooom full of spring samples for men and women at less than half price (most items are $50-$350): The first day features Moschino and Jean Paul Gaultier; the second day is for Alberta Ferretti, Narciso Rodriguez, and Ozbek. On the last two days of the sale, you’ll find leftovers from all five designers. Women’s sizes 6-8; men’s sizes M-L. 30 West 56th St., first floor (212-632-9300); A.E., M.C., V.; Tues.-Fri. 10-6; 4/11-4/14.