Get Fit in the Urban Wilderness
Exercising outdoors burns up to 30% more calories. So why would anyone work out in the gym? Especially since Spring is officially here. (It is here, right?)
If you're a runner, you're lucky. It's easy and low maintenance. But if you're not, it can be harder to stay motivated and on track. We offer five suggestions to help you burn those extra calories with a bit of help.
Wildfitness
Outdoor fitness holiday company, Wildfitness, is now offering London classes in Regent's, Hyde and Battersea Parks. They focus on three key movements (wild running, boxing and kettle bells), designed to work the whole body, not just specific muscles. First time participants need to have three personal training sessions before joining the classes, but if you can go from 'zoo animal' to 'wild animal'...
Nordic Walking
This option has the added benefit of getting you ready for your next cross-country ski adventure. It's basically speed-walking with poles, but burns more calories than regular walking (probably because you have to maneuver the poles), and there are classes, groups and instructors literally all over London.
British Military Fitness
If you're a closet masochist, you must opt for this one. You'll run, you'll do push-ups, you'll exercise every muscle in your body through a variety of workouts, and you'll stop only for water breaks. Ouch. But probably super effective. There are classes in most of London's parks, they're offered in the morning and evenings, and they're surprisingly well-priced.
Outdoor Gyms in Richmond
Richmond residents are among London's first to have access to outdoor exercise suites, which have been set up in Hampton Common and Heathfield Recreation Ground. The trial run includes six machines installed by Fresh-Air Fitness.
Outdoor Active through Virgin Active
If you're a member, find out if your location offers Outdoor Active courses. The four-station workouts include ladders and hurdles, medicine balls and powerbags, and most importantly, fresh air.
Wildfitness
Outdoor fitness holiday company, Wildfitness, is now offering London classes in Regent's, Hyde and Battersea Parks. They focus on three key movements (wild running, boxing and kettle bells), designed to work the whole body, not just specific muscles. First time participants need to have three personal training sessions before joining the classes, but if you can go from 'zoo animal' to 'wild animal'...
Nordic Walking
This option has the added benefit of getting you ready for your next cross-country ski adventure. It's basically speed-walking with poles, but burns more calories than regular walking (probably because you have to maneuver the poles), and there are classes, groups and instructors literally all over London.
British Military Fitness
If you're a closet masochist, you must opt for this one. You'll run, you'll do push-ups, you'll exercise every muscle in your body through a variety of workouts, and you'll stop only for water breaks. Ouch. But probably super effective. There are classes in most of London's parks, they're offered in the morning and evenings, and they're surprisingly well-priced.
Outdoor Gyms in Richmond
Richmond residents are among London's first to have access to outdoor exercise suites, which have been set up in Hampton Common and Heathfield Recreation Ground. The trial run includes six machines installed by Fresh-Air Fitness.
Outdoor Active through Virgin Active
If you're a member, find out if your location offers Outdoor Active courses. The four-station workouts include ladders and hurdles, medicine balls and powerbags, and most importantly, fresh air.
