Washington, D.C. is a fantastic city with endless opportunities to take it all in while also getting some exercise! Since gym memberships can get pricey and being inside working out when the weather is so nice is practically torture, we’ve come up with eight ways you can get some exercise and fresh air:
1. CityDays — D.C. SUrban Adventures
CityDays Urban Adventures allow thrill seekers to see sights and landmarks in the city while working on challenges and puzzles! You can uncover a murder mystery in while enjoying the sights of historic monuments all around D.C. There’s bound to be lots of fun and adventure around every corner on this trail filled with lots of history and stories!
Depending on the trail there are specific times while others allow more flexibility on start and stop times. Head here for more info on CityDays Escape Room Games in D.C.
2. Venture around by bike
Biking is a fantastic way to explore the city at a faster pace. Luckily, there are a number of bike trails and places to rent bikes, like through the Capital Bike Share program. You can even take bike tours the discover the city’s hidden secrets! Some major bike trails around D.C. are:
- Capital Crescent Trail
- Anacostia Riverwalk Trail
- Metropolitan Branch Trail
- Rock Creek Trail
- 15th, M St & L St (and other green lanes)
- Hains Point Loop
3. Play ball sports at your local park
There are many parks throughout the city that have baseball or soccer fields, tennis courts, and basketball courts, where anyone can practice their skills, enjoy the weather, and run around. Visiting a park to play at is also a great way to make new friends and meet the community!
3. Try paddle sports on the Potomac River
With the Potomac River so close by, there are many opportunities to try out kayaking, paddle boarding, and canoeing! Perfect for exercising your arms, back, and abs, you’ll probably be feeling quite sore the next day, but who cares when you’re having fun! Check out the article above to find some places where you can rent boats and paddles!
4. Take an outdoor yoga or fitness class
Many studios offer classes under the sun, which can be much nicer than being in a crowded gym or indoor studio. This is the perfect spring or summer activity for a lovely day! Just don’t forget to apply sunscreen and to hydrate throughout the workout!
5. Swim at a public pool or in natural waters
Swimming is a great way to get exercise and enjoy the summertime (or at least, the summer-ish weather)! The D.C. Department of Parks and Recreation has a cool tooll] where you can find a public swimming pool near you. If you are feeling more adventurous there are many natural swimming areas around D.C. to explore.
6. Simply go for a walk
Whether that’s in your neighborhood, on a trail or around the block, even the smallest exercise can make a difference, because something is better than nothing. Plus there are so many hidden benefits to walking; according to the Arthritis Foundation walking improves circulation, lengthens life, lightens up your mood, it strengthens muscles, improves sleep, and so much more! Walking is probably the simplest exercise you can do too.
7. Go for a hike
If you are looking to upgrade your walk, try hiking! From inside city limits to just outside of the city, there are so many national parks with trails of all levels to explore. It’s time to lace up those sports shoes, pack a bottle of water, hike up a trail ,and discover the beautiful views that awaits. Check out the article linked above for trails to hike near D.C.
8. Golf these courses in and near the city
Golfing requires mental capacity and sharp muscles and instincts. There are many reputable golf courses in the DMV area that make a day out on the green better than just “exercising”:
- East Potomac Golf Links
- Rock Creek Golf Course
- Chevy Chase Country Club
- University of Maryland Golf Course
Written by Lauren Piot and Jenna Romaine.