Exotically named moves such as the kla-crab (tiger lying down) and krapeu-ha (crocodile opening its mouth) make the call of this ancient sport all the louder. Khmer kickboxing or “Pradal Serey” has been practiced as a martial art since Ang¬korean times and was often used as a fighting technique by the Khmer Army. Their undisputed mastery in this area made the Khmer Empire a force to be reckoned with throughout ancient South-East Asia.

This primeval skill was almost wiped out during the Khmer Rouge regime with many of the sport’s masters and practitioners being killed, and the sport itself banished. In recent years, however, many Khmers have worked hard to rebuild this lost tradition and it is now a sport widely practiced amongst Khmer men. Taking a lesson in Pradal Serey is just one of the fitness options available in Siem Reap and it is a workout so physical that even Rocky Balboa could have added it to his training regime. If this sounds like you then there are a few local gyms that offer such training.

If the thought of beating your shins with blocks of wood (a technique used by Pradal Serey participants to harden their shins) doesn’t appeal, then why not try a more tranquil form of exercise. The Singing Tree Café, near Wat Damnak (just a few minutes stroll from the Old Market – call 092 635 500) offers, amongst other things, weekend Yoga classes. At the time of writing twice-weekly Pilates classes are also being held, taught by Conchetta, a qualified Personal Trainer. Conchetta also offers individual training sessions if so desired. After your workout, to truly feel cleansed and invigorated, you can stay on for some delicious organic vegetarian cuisine, and the coffee is pretty good too.

For a more conventional workout, then head to the King Kong Gym. Take a moto along the river towards the Wat Dam Nak area, turn left at the crocodile farm and go over the bridge (keep an eye out for the mural of Khmer body builders). At first glance this gym looks a little haphazard but do not be deceived, it really does have all the equipment you need for a thorough workout. Also included with the US$2 entrance fee, is a pleasant view of the Siem Reap river and a workout with Bikram-esque type benefits (given the lack of air-conditioning you will soon be sweating out all those ‘happy hour’ induced toxins).

If time is of the essence you could opt combine some sightseeing with your work¬out. The Happy Ranch, just a five minute tuk-tuk ride from town, offers trail rides through rice farms and countryside villages starting at just $15 an hour. They also offer off-the-beaten-track temple tours that will be sure to get your heart racing, and that’s just from the scenery! It’s a great alternative way to tour the Angkor temple complex and your thighs and glutes will be sure to get a thorough workout.
 
Personally I like to combine my exercise with a bit of poolside indulgence, especially given the haet and humidity at this time of year. Many of the more luxurious hotels offer a daily visitor rate which includes full use of gym and pool facilities. Although the day pass does not entitle you to spa treatments, a massage is always a good way to soothe away the aches and pains of a thorough workout. There is a venue for every budget with prices ranging from $5 at the Prince d’Angkor or Angkor Borei, up to a truly luxurious $24 at the Sofitel Royal Angkor.