If you’re looking to take your workout outdoors, why not try joining a couple thousand Chicagoans in a lakeside pilates class? Rise Pilates Club, led by instructor Olivia Santelli, meets most summer Friday mornings at sunrise at Oak Street Beach. It’s quickly become one of the most popular options for exercise al fresco.
But if you’re looking for something a little less crowded, here are a few more options to check out this summer.
Get Grooving
Whether you’re interested in salsa, samba, or cumbia, SummerDance has got you covered! The free classes take place on Wednesdays at various parks and are suitable for all skill levels.
Pose at the Park
Move your salutations into the sun with free yoga classes that are part of the Millennium Park Summer Workouts program. Or try Zumba, pilates, or kickboxing! Classes are Saturday mornings at the Great Lawn and Wrigley Square.
Ride After Dark
For a slightly cooler option, join Monday Night Ride, a bike club that explores the city once the sun has gone down. The group meets 9 p.m. Mondays at the Lincoln statue at North Avenue and Dearborn Street.
- Biking for a good cause: Don’t forget to register for Bike the Drive on Aug. 31! It’s the 40th anniversary of the Active Transportation Alliance’s fundraiser to support safe infrastructure for cyclists, pedestrians, and public transit.
Sunrise Workouts
Early-birds should check out the free classes offered by November Project, which combine body weight training and running. Classes start bright and early at 6:06 a.m. at Jane Addams Park on Wednesdays and Millennium Park on Fridays.
Take a Hike
Want to be more surrounded by trees than buildings? Check out the Forest Preserves of Cook County calendar for hikes, bikes, nature walks, yoga, and kayaking. Their next fitness hike is coming up on July 23 in Yankee Woods.
Catch a Runner’s High
Join Tortugas Run Club at 10 a.m. Sundays at Harrison Park to get your heart pumping and hit your step goal!
Back to Basics
Grab a partner and head to Backyard Basics Fitness Club’s strength training and conditioning workouts on Tuesday and Thursday evenings, or Saturday mornings.
