Let’s be real: Exercising in the same room or gym over and over again can begin to feel a bit monotonous. Luckily, the months of June through September are brimming with gorgeous outdoor workout weather, giving you more options to stay committed to your weekly workout regimen.
If you’re living in a big city like our hometown Philadelphia, you may not realize how many nearby green spaces are also perfect for exercising outdoors. Let this blog be your inspiration to explore these 5 popular outdoor workout spots around the city, and inspire you find your own scenic favorites.
It’s time to stretch, apply plenty of sunscreen, grab your water bottle and go.
Philadelphia Museum of Art
Yes, it’s often packed with tourists, but our art museum is an exceptionally great space for an outdoor workout. Run, jog or walk up and down the famous “Rocky steps” or around the museum’s expansive grounds — there’s plenty of green space both out front and behind the museum that’s excellent for stretching and doing yoga.
Race Street Pier
Race Street Pier is one of the prime spots in the city for running, biking or just going for a stroll to get your daily cardio out of the way with the added bonus of some breathtaking scenery. You can even bring the kids or pups (as long as it isn’t too hot out) and get them involved in your exercise routine! Additionally, you can find free yoga classes at the pier all summer long!
Rittenhouse Square (Backup Plan: Washington Square Park)
Philadelphia has plenty of city parks, but two of the most beautiful and historic are Rittenhouse and Washington Square parks. At Rittenhouse, you’ll find yourself in the heart of the city’s most bustling neighborhood with lots of options for post-workout nutrition at places like HipCityVeg and Sip-N-Glo Juicery. At Washington Square Park, you’ll find yourself in the shadow of Independence hall, quite literally exercising in the footsteps of our forefathers.
The perk of moving your routine to one of these squares is that beyond all of the green space, there are plenty of opportunities to people watch while you exercise! These city parks are ideal for stretching, doing yoga or going for a jog. Another perk: Each square has a large fountain — just in case you need to cool off quickly (though we don’t recommend jumping in, maybe just dip your arms or legs)
Kelly Drive
Looking for somewhere to go for a long run or bike ride? Kelly Drive is the spot for you! This is an excellent option for people looking for a quick and close by escape from the concrete jungle. You can spend hours out on Kelly Drive and easily get in those 10,000 steps for the day all while enjoying the scenic views of the city from Boathouse Row and beyond. Take Kelly Drive far enough on bike and you’ll find yourself on the Wissahickon Trail. If you’re looking to switch things up, you can even go kayaking or canoeing out on the Schuylkill River.
The Rail Park
If you’re the type to seek out new places to exercise, the newly-opened rail park on Noble Street is a great fit for you. Disclaimer: Only the first portion of the park is open to the public, so you may have to do plenty of laps to satisfy your daily workout regimen. However, you can take in some incredible views and be one of the first to exercise at the rail park so why wouldn’t you do it?
When exercising outdoors — particularly on hot summer days — you increase the likelihood of dehydration, heat exhaustion, and more. If you begin to feel lightheaded or dizzy during your workout, stop immediately. Grab a drink of water, find an air conditioned space, and call us at 215-999-6060 or visit one of our four area locations (Center City, South Philly, Port Richmond and Roxborough) if you require medical assistance. Our centers are open 7 days a week from 8:00am to 8:00pm Monday to Friday and 8:00am to 5:00pm Saturday and Sunday.
FIND YOUR VYBE
