5 Outdoor Workouts That Will Make You Ditch Your Gym
With summer in full effect, we’re looking to (safely!) soak up as much sun as possible, which leads to an important question: Why would you ever want to spend precious daylight hours holed up in a treadmill-laden, over-air-conditioned gym? Besides, when it comes to the variety of outdoor workouts offered — from trapezing in the clear skies to boot-camping at historical landmarks — the options are truly limitless. In short, no matter what kind of workout you’re seeking, there’s an awesome outdoor class for you.
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We’ve rounded up five very different workouts from across the country that will immediately send you to the gym to put a three-month hold on your membership. And, because exercising is always a little easier when your gear fits the part, we’ve paired each class with a sweat-friendly outfit from SIX:02. Whether you’re an urban adventurer or a wannabe aerialist, prepare to breathe in the fresh air.
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(Photo: Brooklyn Bridge Bootcamp)
For The Urban Warrior: Bust A Move On The Brooklyn Bridge
Face it: Running on a treadmill feels sad, especially when you know it’s 72 and sunny beyond the gym’s walls. That’s your cue to take your interval running routine up a notch on the Brooklyn Bridge — the breathtaking view of Manhattan’s skyline is incentive enough to skip the snooze button. With plenty of sprints across the bridge and strength-training exercises along the way (the workout cleverly utilizes the benches, fences, railings, and walls of the bridge), you’re guaranteed to arrive at the office pumped up.
Brooklyn Bridge Bootcamp, Brooklyn Bridge, New York City; 646-354-0039.
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Keep in mind that you won’t be at a gym with lockers, so your outfit should be as bare-bones as possible. An easy pair of cropped leggings and a no-frills top are key for summertime, while an abstractly patterned bra is a fun touch underneath a white tank top. Word to the wise: Invest in a solid pair of running sneakers — this class will have you on your feet nonstop.
Nike Club Tank, $39.99, available at SIX:02; Nike Free 4.0 Flyknit, $119.99, available at SIX:02; Nike Pro Hypercool Capri 2.0, $54.99, available at SIX:02; Skins A200 Speed Crop Bra, $59.99, available at SIX:02.
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(Photo: Trapeze School New York)
For The Aerial Addict: Fly Through The Air With The Greatest Of Ease
If you’ve ever wondered what it feels like to fly, a trapeze class will make your dreams come true. Just imagine yourself suspended 23 feet above the ground with your arms and legs outstretched and your body elongated to superhero status. And, while you’re riding on the adrenaline of swinging midair, expect to tone your arms and legs with basic knee hangs, splits, planches, and whips (the instructors will show and tell).
Trapeze School New York, locations nationwide; 212-242-8769.
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Since you’ll be strapped into a safety belt, hanging by your knees from the bar, and likely to fall many a-time into the big safety net (phew!), be sure to fully cover up your arms and legs to avoid irritating exposed skin. Try a simple long-sleeve top and patterned, full-length leggings, plus punchy, comfy pool slides and soft socks for in between jumps.
Nike 3 Pack Cotton Cushion No Show Socks, $14, available at SIX:02; Soybu Alma Dolman Long Sleeved T-Shirt, $51.99, available at SIX:02; Nike Leg-A-See Mishmash AOP Leggings, $49.99, available at SIX:02; Nike Benassi JDI Slide, $29.99, available at SIX:02; Moving Comfort Juno High-Impact Sports Bra, $55.99, available at SIX:02.
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For The Serenity Seeker: Flow With Thousands Of Yogis
For an insanely meditative workout like no other, get your downward dog on with 2,000 yogis among Colorado’s naturally occurring red-rock formations. Be prepared to get swept away by the gorgeous setting and overwhelming feeling of camaraderie as you salute the sun at these early-morning classes, surrounded by fellow peace-of-mind seekers. Namaste.
Yoga on the Rocks, Red Rocks Amphitheater, Morrison, CO; 888-9-AXS-TIX.
Eye-catching, neon legging shorts are appropriate for the rising sun, while a simple black bra and gray muscle tank tone down the look a bit. Wear this solid sneaker on the way to class — the gorgeous teal of the shoe perfectly complements the yellow bottoms.
Moving Comfort Urban X-Over High Impact A/B Cup Bra, $43.99, available atSIX:02; Nike Pro 11" Shorts, $34.99, available at SIX:02; Nike Roshe One, $119.99, available at SIX:02; Nike Signal Muscle Tank, $34.99, available at SIX:02.
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For The Woodsy Wanderer: Trek A Little, Bend A Little
No need to choose between a cardio and conditioning workout — you get the best of both with a Hiking Yoga class. This 90-minute program begins with a hike through the woods, continues with a full session of yoga at a summit, and concludes with a climb back down to reality. Whether in Austin’s Barton Creek or Los Angeles’ Griffith Park, it’s a chance to take advantage of the great foliage while increasing your strength.
Hiking Yoga, locations nationwide; 888-589-2250.
Since the “wilderness” can be unpredictable, bring a backpack — you can use it to stash essential layers, snacks, and extra gear. As for the rest of your outfit, pick an ensemble you’d normally wear to yoga class. Stretchy leggings and a V-neck T-shirt are as effortless as it gets. And, don’t forget a track jacket to combat chilly temps in shady areas of the woods.
adidas Hawaii SuperStar Mesh Track Top, $69.99, available at SIX:02; Nike Leg-A-See Logo Leggings, $44.99, available at SIX:02; Under Armour HeatGear Perfect Pace T-Shirt, $34.99, available at SIX:02; Nike Zoom Fit, $89.99, available at SIX:02; adidas Team Speed Backpack, $75, available at SIX:02.
By Jinnie Lee
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