The warm weather you’ve been wishing for is finally here, opening up a whole new world of outdoor workout opportunities. Summer is the perfect time to put a hold on your gym membership and take advantage of all the wonderful ways to be active outside and in your community. There’s something out there for everyone, whether you’re a yoga enthusiast, a cardio fanatic, or a water sports lover. Here are five opportunities for you to try something out of your normal routine and add some excitement to your summer fitness regimen.
Body by Ginny Outdoor Fitness Classes
Offering outdoor fitness classes in McLean and Arlington, Body by Ginny comes prepared for your busy summer schedule by offering multiple classes Monday through Friday at a range of different times, so you can be sure to find one that fits in between your summer barbeques and vacation plans. Each class is a total body workout, including a section for upper body, lower body, abdominals and core, and stretching. Check out the summer schedule to find a time and location that works for you. Each class costs $20, but you can instead sign up for a one-month unlimited membership for $135 or a three-month unlimited membership for $395. With classes hosted every weekday, you can be sure to get your money’s worth.
Cool Yoga
Cool Yoga, founded by yoga instructor Maureen Clyne, is back for a 10th summer of free outdoor yoga. Classes are held in the Del Ray neighborhood of Alexandria on Wednesday nights from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. and are open to all. Bring your own mat and enjoy this community building workout. After class, an “afterparty” with summer treats and beverages is a great way to wind down and connect with fellow yoga lovers. The program runs from June 15th to August 31st. Wellness Junction Parking Lot: 1900 Mt. Vernon Ave., Alexandria
Bull Run Occoquan Trail
Walkers, hikers, and nature lovers can get in their workout of choice on Bull Run Occoquan Trail. The trail is the NOVA park system’s longest natural surface trail, clocking in at 19.7 miles. Visitors can explore many of the scenic loops the trail has to offer and observe the plentiful surrounding wildlife and vegetation. The trail is shady enough to keep you cool even in the dead of summer. Even so, be sure to bring water and sunscreen. The park is open from dawn to dusk. 10875 Hampton Rd., Fairfax Station
Fairfax County Water Exercise Class
If it’s simply too hot to workout outside, aquatic exercise may be the best solution for staying cool while staying active. At nine different recreation centers across Fairfax County, you can sign up for water exercise classes that take advantage of water’s natural resistance to provide a low impact workout option. Even those with arthritis and other physical limitations can take part in an Arthritis Water Exercise class that is specifically designed to improve range of motion and muscle strength. While the programs are hosted at Fairfax County recreation centers, the classes are open to all (nonresidents will just have a slightly higher registration fee.) You can sample classes with a daily drop in fee of $13.50 for Fairfax County residents and $16.50 for nonresidents, or sign up for a 10-visit pass for $127 for residents and $142 for nonresidents.
Paddleboarding and Kayaking with the Reston Association
Take to the lake for a summer workout unlike any other. Reston’s four man-made lakes provide a calm space to enjoy the natural beauty of the outdoors while getting in a robust workout by kayaking or paddle-boarding. Rent kayaks at the boat dock at Washington Plaza for $15 (tip: be sure to bring cash!) or register for stand up paddle-boarding (SUP) lessons, where you’ll learn how to use your leg and core muscles to maintain balance on the water. Along with traditional lessons, SUP yoga classes are also open to beginners and experienced paddlers alike. After getting in your workout on the glistening waters of Reston’s lakes, you might never want to return to a traditional gym again. Paddle-boarding lessons cost $45 per lesson, or $40 for members of the Reston Association. SUP Yoga on the Lake classes cost $35 for non-members and $25 for members.
Feature image, Prostock-studio/stock.adobe.com
For more stories like this, subscribe to our Health newsletter.
