So you’re tired of your old gym. Same routine, same equipment. Luckily, trying something new and getting into shape has never been more fun in the Philly area. We have compiled a list of alternative fitness options that will keep you engaged. The only problem is you’ll forget that you’re actually doing it to be healthy.
In no particular order of benefits or fun factors, here we go:
1. Boxing
Boxing is a form of body weight strength training that not only engages your arms with every punch you throw but also your legs and core.
Kinesiologist Stuart Phillips of McMaster University says, “You step into it, brace, and bam.” Adding, “It’s a contraction from top to bottom and a big demand on the cardio system,” (Men’s Journal ).
Boxing is unlike a lot of ways to get in shape that you may have come across on your google journey. One reason specifically is that boxing is an anaerobic exercise.
“Anaerobic exercise is any activity that breaks down glucose for energy without using oxygen. Generally, these activities are of short length with high intensity,” (Erin Kelly, What You Need to Know About Anaerobic Exercise).
Check This Out: If you are looking to start your boxing journey in and around Philadelphia, you might be interested in Rumble with a location in Center City or Society Boxing and Fitness in Downingtown.
2. Barre
If you’re more interested in being on the ground and want to feel empowered from within, Barre classes might be the way for you to start getting in shape.
Barre offers workouts combining strength conditioning, cardio, and mindfulness. “Barre class is a workout technique inspired by elements of ballet, yoga, and Pilates,” says DiGiorgio the VP at Pure Barre.
These classes tend to be broken out by muscle groups, i.e., legs arms, glutes, and core. Some Barre classes will incorporate other tools for enhancing your exercises like resistance bands, sliders, ankle weights, free weights, exercise balls, and more.
Check This Out: They are an abundance of Barre studios to choose from in and around Philadelphia. Barre3 is an excellent choice with several options from West Chester to Philadelphia. Read more at Barre3 Magazine. With so many locations and studios to choose from your sure to find your fit.
3. Rock Climbing
If you are somebody who enjoys a little thrill and likes to have options, rock climbing might just be the way for you to get in shape. Climbing is an excellent full-body workout especially if you’re interested in mixing up what you do for cardio.
And as a bonus, rock climbing is one of the highest calorie-burning activities out there and engages muscles you never knew you had.
You can rock climb indoors or outdoors and the sport offers many styles of climbing from bouldering (no ropes) to top-roping (with ropes). And while you would think of climbing as an individual sport, it is actually quite social! Climbers are a supportive and inclusive community and you’ll feel right at home.
Check This Out: If you are looking to start your rock climbing journey in or around Philadelphia look no further. Philadelphia Rock Gyms provides Intro to Climbing Class and First Time Climber Packages to help you get started.
4. Rowing
Have you seen the weird-looking ‘ergs’ at the gym, but you’ve never known what to do with them? Those ‘ergs’ are actually rowing machines and they are nicknamed that because they use ergometers to measure work by the rower.
The sport of rowing itself is an excellent way to improve stamina and overall fitness and strength. Need more proof? Check out the article, “The Benefits of a Rowing Machine.” Bonus: If you have access to bodies of water, whether it is a lake or a river, what better way to learn!
If you are looking to make new friends, interested in teamwork, or simply want to get into shape, rowing is an excellent solution. And don’t worry that you are not in the “right” shape. Rowing is great for people of all fitness levels. It’s also very age inclusive and low impact while also enabling you to get in some fun cardio without stepping on a treadmill.
Check This Out: There are several options for picking up rowing in and around Philadelphia, one, in particular, is the Bachelors Barge Club. This rowing club welcomes experienced and amateur rowers to boathouse row.
If you’re not feeling like you are ready for the water there is also RowZone an indoor rowing and fitness studio in Manayunk and Rittenhouse Square.
5. Acro Yoga
Acro yoga is not only a fun way to get in shape but is also a great way to improve balance and build strength.
NOTE: This is an activity that requires two or more participants so whether you have a friend in mind that you want to try it with or are completely new to Acro you are sure to make new friends along the way.
According to Yoga + Acrobatics = AcroYoga, this is a multifaceted activity. You can get in shape and improve your flexibility while also building other skills like communication, trust, and teamwork. If you have an open mind, this is the physical activity for you.
Check This Out: Acro & is a great place to start if you’re in the Philly area. They offer everything from Acro fundamentals and Handstands 101 to Private lessons and Next Level Handstands. And as Sara Stevenson says, “For each Acro yoga pose, you’ll use your flexibility, strength, and a little bit of bravery,” (Openfit 2020).
There you have it! Five ways to get in shape that will actually be fun! Of course, there are dozens of ways to keep moving that you will personally enjoy. Be creative and consider your likes and dislikes. And never go for a stationary jog again!
