With the advances in technology, the importance of staying healthy inside and out has grown exponentially. After a year of strict lockdowns, many of us are ready to get outside and get some exercise. What better place to do that than in New York City, the city that never sleeps? From urban oases in the heart of the city to nature trails rising through the iconic skyline, New York City can provide you with all the best places to get an outdoor workout. In this article we’ll cover the top places in the city to get your workout fix, as well as some helpful tips on how to get the most out of your outdoor workout experience.
Safety First
Exercising outdoors can be incredibly rewarding, but when doing so it is important to think about how you can stay safe. To start, make sure to wear proper shoes and clothing suited to the weather. It is also important to remain aware of your surroundings. Pay attention to animals, other people, and any environmental hazards. Consider bringing a friend or group and bring water and any necessary supplies. Lastly, remember the value of the sun’s vitamin D and be sure to take adequate precautions to ensure your safety.
Proper Warmup and Cool Down
It is essential that you begin your outdoor workout with a proper warmup, as it prepares your muscles and may help prevent injury. Start by doing a few dynamic stretches, active warmup exercises and some light cardio to get your heart rate up. This can include jogging, jumping jacks. and leg swings.
At the end of your workout session, incorporate a cool down involving static stretching and light stretching. Stretches help restore normal movement and posture, and may also assist in the recovery and prevention of muscle soreness.
Best Places for an Outdoor Workout in New York City
Central Park
The granddaddy of all NYC parks is Central Park, providing 843 acres of sprawling open space in the middle of Manhattan Island. Among its many land features, it is the perfect place to get your fitness and exercise fix. Whether it is a jog around the loop road or a session of yoga in Sheep Meadow, Central Park offers a wonderful space to get in shape while taking in the awesome scenery.
Van Cortlandt Park
This 1,146-acre park in the Bronx offers freshwater ponds, woodlands and meadows, as well as a lit running track and a handful of sports facilities. From the Van Corltandt Park outdoor running track, you can find a wonderful view of the surrounding Bronx and Manhattan skyline.
Gantry Plaza State Park
Just a short ferry ride away from Manhattan, the LIC Gantry Plaza State Park is a great place to get some fresh air, exercise and beautiful views of the Queens and Manhattan bridges. From running along the waterfront, to yoga in the grass, Gantry Plaza State Park offers a perfect landscape for any outdoor workout with an amazing view.
Hudson River Park
With four miles of tracks, piers, and greenspaces, the Hudson River Park is the perfect outdoor destination for an outdoor workout. The waterfront stretch from Irving Park to Battery Park can provide a scenic 5-mile run, and there are plenty of basketball and tennis courts, along with beach volleyball.
Flushing Meadows-Corona Park
This park, located in the Queens borough of New York City, is a great spot for those wanting a nature escape. With trails and ponds, as well as sand volleyball courts, Flushing Meadows-Corona Park offers a great opportunity to take your workout outdoors and get some fresh air.
Brooklyn Bridge Park
Located in the northern part of Brooklyn, the Brooklyn Bridge Park includes lawns, rolling hills, woodlands, and some of the best river views the city has to offer. The Piers 1-6 section of the park is an ideal spot for an outdoor fitness session, providing both the perfect environment for a jog or walk and the best view of the East River and Manhattan skyline.
Wave Hill
A short ride from Manhattan, the 28-acre Wave Hill is a peaceful and picturesque spot for an outdoor workout. From running and yoga along with the Bronx River to a peaceful stroll among lush gardens, Wave Hill offers a wide variety of fitness possibilities surrounded by natural beauty.
No matter what type of workout you want, New York City offers a wealth of options for you to get your fitness fix. Whether you are looking for a breathtaking view or a quiet escape, the city has everything you need to get outside and get your body moving. So the next time you’re looking for a change of pace or just an opportunity to enjoy the great outdoors, these top places in New York City are perfect for an outdoor workout.
