How wellness is taking off at Sydney Airport

Getting a haircut, having your nails done, hammering out a cardio or weights session: these are three things you don’t usually expect to do at the airport.

But Sydney Airport is now turning pre-flight downtime into self-care time with the arrival of a barber, gym and nail salon at the T1 international terminal.

All three are located ‘landside’, making them easily accessible before going through security and immigration, or even after stepping off your international flight.

Sydney Airport's Anytime Fitness gym.

That could prove especially appealing for the Anytime Fitness gym, where members can either get the blood pumping after a long flight or just grab a quick shower to freshen up.

Gail Taylor, Sydney Airport’s General Manager Retail, says the trio “are part of our broader commitment to making every step through the airport easier.”

"We’re continuing to evolve our retail mix to better match how people travel today – adding thoughtful services, practical solutions and welcoming spaces that genuinely add value.”

The new Barber's Lounge at Sydney Airport.

Already open is the Barber’s Lounge, providing haircuts (starting from $50), beard trimming and other “premium grooming services.”

“Arriving after a long flight often means heading straight into meetings, events or home life,” notes Barber’s Lounge owner Omar Choukchouk.

The new Barber's Lounge at Sydney Airport.

“Barber’s Lounge at Sydney Airport gives travellers the opportunity to refresh and feel their best as soon as they land.”

Up next is Anytime Fitness, which will rack up the weights and roll out the yoga mats from March 11.

The purpose-built, two-level, 300m² club will be open 24/7 for early departures, late arrivals and shift workers – indeed, Anytime Fitness expects to see many airport staff signing up to sweat it out.

Sydney Airport's Anytime Fitness gym.

The space includes "open functional training zones ideal for mobility and recovery”,  Life Fitness and Hammer Strength equipment, two lifting platforms and premium shower suites.

Anytime Fitness has also created low-impact Fit to Fly workout routines for before, after and even during the flight.

Sydney Airport's Anytime Fitness gym.

The latter is “a selection of easy, seat-based movements targeting the neck, shoulders, spine, hips and legs, offering quick ways to help you stay comfortable, improve circulation and feel refreshed.”

“Travelling, especially long-haul flights, can lead to body stiffness and reduced mobility,” says National Fitness and Member Experience Manager Ben Richards.

“These three routines target the key muscle groups that support circulation and joint stability to support a more comfortable arrival.”

ProfessioNail is expected to join the T1 International Arrivals lineup in September, offering everything from express manicures to expert nail care and other professional beauty services for those on the move.

These new traveller-focused experiences at T1 come as Sydney Airport continues to upgrade its T3 dining venues with an impressive roster now boasting Sydney institutions Icebergs and Maggio’s, soon to be joined by boulangerie café Loulou.

Sweet or savoury, healthy or indulgent, a visit to Maggio's is sure to hit the spot.

These and a dozen others follow the 2023 debut of Luke Mangan’s standout Luke’s Bistro & Bar.

Two tempting towers at Luke's Bistro & Bar, SYD T3.

Meanwhile, T2’s refreshed food court will soon be complemented by the return of tapas restaurant Movida, alongside Melbourne coffee institution St Ali and The Rocks Taphouse. 

Also read: International flights to take off from Sydney’s domestic terminals