With summer in full swing and a few months of warm weather still ahead, there are endless ways to stay active in Columbus. Finding the time and motivation to stay active may seem daunting, but Columbus is full of unique and fun activities that will keep you on your exercise kick.
Grab a friend, your dog or enjoy some time alone and explore these five ways to stay active in Columbus!
1.Biking
Biking is one of the best, and most enjoyable, forms of cardio! Not only are you staying active, but you are saving energy and enjoying time outside as well. Columbus has no shortage of scenic trails to choose from, with each one being unique. Riders can choose trails based off mileage, intensity or location.
The Alum Creek Trail travels along one of Columbus’ most scenic river corridors, and Blacklick Creek Trail weaves bikers toward three different parks. In downtown Columbus, the Scioto Trail travels along the downtown riverfront, while a second connecting trail runs along the west bank of the Scioto River to Dodge Park.
Whether you want to plan a half-day trip with family or friends or just want to enjoy a quick bike ride, there’s a trail in Columbus that’s perfect for every adventure!
2. Swimming
Swimming laps is a full-body workout that offers a wide variety of health benefits such as strength building, muscle toning and maintaining a healthy heart. There are both indoor and outdoor pool options in Columbus, open both early in the mornings and in the evenings.
The Columbus Aquatics Center offers an indoor pool with lap lanes, along with several water fitness programs. If you are looking to soak up the sun while getting a good workout in, Columbus has several great outdoor public pools—including Dodge Swimming Pool and Driving Park Pool.
3.Workout Classes at the Arena District Athletic Club
Workout classes are a productive and fun way to stay fit—with so many different classes offered, it’s easy to find one that matches your interests and strengths. Located in the heart of downtown Columbus’ Arena District, the Arena District Athletic Club is the perfect place to get your day started or unwind after work.
Whether it’s a spin class or yoga session, you’ll get a great workout whether you go with a friend or enjoy a class by yourself. Finding a workout class that you enjoy can make staying active really enjoyable, and the Arena District Athletic Club offers over 15 different workout classes.
The Arena District Athletic Club is also hosting a free 50-minute all-levels vinyasa yoga class on Battelle Plaza outside of Nationwide Arena on Sunday, August 18 at noon! Participants can enter to win a new yoga mat and enjoy other goodies. RSVP here!
4. Club Pilates at Grandview Yard
Club Pilates at Grandview Yard offers low-impact, full-body workouts that are known for all-over toning. The wide range of classes strive to provide a path to a richer, more fulfilling life through workouts that challenge your mind and body.
If you’ve never tried it before, a free intro class is offered for first-timers who are interested in incorporating pilates into their fitness routines. With a wide variety of class times throughout the day, incorporating a class into your day and staying fit is effortless!
5. Walk or Run in the Park
A classic way to stay active on a nice warm day in Columbus is to take advantage of the wide variety of scenic parks that the city has to offer. Whether you are in the mood to go on a walk or run, there are plenty of beautiful parks to choose from.
The Battelle Riverfront Park, for instance, is located on the eastern bank of the Scioto River and is home to numerous monuments and memorials. The park also offers access to Greenway Trail, along with river access. If you decide to take a walk among Columbus’ downtown area, Bicentennial Park is one of the area’s most popular parks and is a perfect place to cool down after a long day.
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Staying active is an important aspect of a healthy lifestyle, and Columbus makes it easy to find enjoyable ways to keep fit. Whether you decide to take a workout class or go for a walk, there are countless parks and facilities within Columbus to explore!
