A recent survey by Skyscanner Australia revealed that at least one in ten Australians is planning a wellness, health, or fitness holiday this year. Mental exhaustion is a key motivator, but so is the desire to get fitter, break old habits, and improve overall well-being. Travel journalist and marathon runner Fiona Harper describes seven days and seven ways to improve her health in Thailand, which she recently discovered after participating in the Bangkok Marathon.

Day 1 Bangkok – Relax and find your well-being

Upon arrival in Bangkok, the chaotic traffic and smog of the metropolis can be a real sensory overload. We therefore recommend starting your first day in Thailand in a relaxing way with a soothing floatation session. At the Bangkok Float Centre, first-time floatationists are gently guided through an introductory session designed to alleviate pain, improve athletic performance, and stimulate endorphin production – that euphoric feeling that runners know so well.

Day 2 Traditional Thai Massage

A traditional Thai massage should be at the top of your list when visiting Thailand. If you're visiting the famous Temple of the Reclining Buddha, why not pop next door to the Watpo Thai Traditional Massage School? Watpo is considered a spiritual center for Thai healing arts and wellness, training therapists who practice their skills worldwide. It's not the place to expect a luxurious spa experience, but Watpo is known for its authentic, soothing half-hour Thai massage, which is a real bargain at around AU$10.

Day 3 Lace up your running shoes

Join over 13,000 fitness enthusiasts at the Amazing Thailand Marathon Bangkok (in February) and experience the rare opportunity to run through Bangkok's notoriously congested streets without any traffic. The race starts near Golden Mountain before sunrise, when the roads are closed. Runners speed past the Victory and King Rama V monuments before crossing the Rama VIII Bridge. Fireworks and thunderous music create a thrilling, festival-like atmosphere. Not a marathon runner? No problem! There's also a 2.5km family run, as well as 10km and 21km races.

Day 4 Phuket – Wellness on the beach

Leave Bangkok behind and fly to Phuket, renowned among Australians for its stunning beaches, waterfront restaurants and bars, and beautiful resorts. The Andara Resort & Villas sets new standards in wellness and fitness with its world-class gym. In addition, a comprehensive program of classes with personal trainers awaits you, including boot camp, Muay Thai, and Pilates. The Andara Signature Massage combines intensive rubbing to generate heat on oiled skin with powerful cupping and tapping techniques.

Day 5: Fine-tuning your athletic skills

At Thanyapura Health and Sports Resort, Lycra is a must – leave your cocktail dress and dress shoes at home! Book an intensive program for athletic performance enhancement, detoxification, weight loss, or a program individually tailored to your needs and budget.

Rise before sunrise in Thanyapura and train early in the morning at one of Phuket's most impressive gyms. After your workout, you can hone your long jump and high jump skills in one of the swimming pools (there's a 50-meter Olympic pool and a 25-meter training pool), on the padded artificial turf running track, on tennis courts that match those of the Australian Open, on a football pitch, or in the athletics area.

Day 6: Working up a real sweat at the vegan buffet.

Between lectures, you can refuel at Thanyapura's vegan lunch buffet. There you'll find fresh juices, vegetable and grain dishes (who would have thought quinoa risotto could be so delicious?), and a huge selection of fresh salads. Healthy food that tastes as good as it looks. Don't forget your towel!

Day 7: Water babies breathe deeply

The elegant new Crest Resort & Pool Villas sits majestically on the cliffs at the southern end of the beach. Rooms with direct pool access are ideal for water lovers. Fitness enthusiasts will find their perfect spot in the PRIMA & Holistic Wellness Village for morning sun salutations or sunset meditations in the rooftop Sky Lounge. Before your flight home, treat yourself to a luxurious pampering session and have the bath butler prepare an aromatic oil blend for you.

Read Fiona's full article here and follow her on Facebook at Travel Boating Lifestyle.