Uh oh. End of January…
By now you have either totally forgotten about your New Years resolutions, or your feverishly trying to get back on track before February hits. The truth is, “getting in shape” and “saving money” are still two of popular goals out there, but they’re also some of the most regularly abandoned. Fortunately for us, we live in Vancouver and there are plenty of opportunities to grab fitness for free before next year’s resolutions are due.
Here are 6 ways to exercise in Vancouver on the cheap:
1. Ice Skate at Robson Square
A lot of people hate running and aren’t brave enough to tackle bike lanes, which makes it pretty difficult to get cardio unless you have a treadmill at home or gym card in your wallet. Good thing that skating at the Robson Square Ice Rink is free and running until February 14th. On top of cardio, skating utilizes small, controlled lower-body movements that will definitely help in the toning department.
2. Run, walk or jog on the Seawall
Yeah we all know about the Seawall, but when was the last time you actually used it? Sure, the gym has those little TV screens and Top 40 radio, but the Seawall has fresh ocean area, majestic views and plenty of access to vitamin D. Do you know how much the Seawall would charge if it were a gym? Too much. Go for a run!
3. Stretch it out at Karma Yoga
Try not to roll your eyes when we tell you that Yoga can be a pretty amazing experience. If you’re not into the whole vibe, know that it’s an excellent way to increase your strength, improve your flexibility and even flush out toxins. While a monthly yoga membership is far from free, many Vancouver studios offer Karma classes that are either free or by donation. Typically the proceeds from these classes go to support a local charities or initiatives supported by the studio. Moksha, Bikram, and even the Vancouver Community College offer some variation of free, karma or community classes, so be sure to check out what’s being offered by studios in your neighbourhood.
4. Take a hike!
Photo: Grouse Grind
Lynn Valley, the Grouse Grind, the Chief. Those are just a few of the world-class mountains that are short ride from downtown Vancouver. Not only will you get to experience the BC wilderness in all its glory, hiking is known to boost bone density, improve blood pressure and build strength in your glutes, quadriceps, hamstrings, and the muscles in your hips and lower legs.
5. Find an Outdoor Gym or Playground
There are a few Vancouver parks that boast modest but effective gym equipment for strength training. China Creek Park and Prince Edward Park (both in Mount Pleasant), have bars and equipment for pull-ups, dips, sit-ups and more. When in doubt, do pull-ups on the monkey bars or just find a set of stairs and start climbing!
6. Find Some Bike Trails
Vancouver is seriously into Mountain Biking. If this sounds too extreme for you, just know that there are plenty of trails perfectly suited for beginners as well as pros. Cypress Mountain, Mount Fromme and Mount Seymour on Vancouver’s North Shore all offer excellent trails. Biking has less impact on joins than running, so it’s a great way to switch up your cardio game. It’s also proven to put you in a good mood. If you are a beginner, just make sure you’re only, “catching air” by taking deep breaths.
