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  • Here’s how to spend a day in America’s Fittest City during the pandemic
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Here’s how to spend a day in America’s Fittest City during the pandemic

While large-group events won’t be happening anytime soon, you can still keep up with your healthy lifestyle while practicing social distancing around Arlington.

By Michele Kettner August 10, 2020 at 3:41 pm

For the third year in a row, Arlington was recently named America’s fittest city by the American College of Sports Medicine. While many businesses have moved online and restaurants have shifted to takeout, you can still keep your healthy lifestyle during the pandemic. Here are some ways to spend your day in Arlington to keep you well during this time.

Where to get in an outdoor workout:

Start your morning off with a relaxing outdoor workout with Mind The Mat Pilates & Yoga. This Arlington studio offers a variety of classes for all levels of experience in both Pilates and yoga. Just bring your water bottle and a mat and socially distance yourself in the field. If you don’t feel like working out with others or sweating in the hot, humid weather, Mind The Mat also offers online classes so you can get your workout in at home. // 3300B Fairfax Drive, Arlington

Where to get healthy takeout:

After your workout, grab some breakfast or lunch at one of the three Sweet Leaf cafes in Arlington. Co-founded by McLean natives Arita and Andre Matinih, this local chain serves local and sustainable veggies from Virginia farms, including NoVA’s own Mountain View Farm in Loudoun County. Start your morning with a delicious piece of avocado toast or grab a customizable grain bowl and smoothie to refuel after your workout. Don’t forget to reward yourself with a sweet treat for later. // 650 N. Quincy St., Arlington; 220 Wilson Blvd., Arlington; 800 N. Glebe Road, Arlington

Where to have fun on the water:

Escape the summer heat with some fun water activities at the Columbia Island Marina. Grab your friends and rent some equipment for an afternoon kayak or a paddle board trip down the Potomac River. Keep cool and socially distanced out on the water, while still getting some summer sun and exercise. // George Washington Memorial Parkway, Arlington; $16-$22 per hour for kayak rental, $22 per hour for paddle board rental

Where to walk with your pups:

Let your dog get in on your healthy day with a walk around Potomac Overlook Regional Park. This 67-acre park has miles of winding trails lined with local flora and fauna. If you and your pup are looking for a trail with a stunning view, head down the Potomac Heritage Trail for a shaded walk along the Potomac. // 2845 Marcey Road, Arlington

For more fitness features, subscribe to our weekly Health newsletter.

Michele Kettner

Michele Kettner

Audience Engagement Editor

Michele Kettner joined Northern Virginia Magazine in 2020 after spending two semesters as an editorial intern at the magazine. The University of Maryland graduate is currently the audience engagement editor and covers everything from can’t-miss things to do and holiday events to new restaurant and store openings throughout Northern Virginia.

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