Many people imagine their days off in the summer months at the beach or on their back porch, lying on a chair and baking under the hot sun with a cool drink in hand. As relaxing as it is to spend an entire day reading a book and sunbathing, it feels even better to be active and not let the lazy summer days get the best of you. It’s important to get that daily dose of Vitamin D during the summer when the sun is always out, but there are many ways to be more active while still getting your daily dose of sunshine. There are countless outdoor activities available for Philadelphians to enjoy this summer — here’s a list of some outdoor options to get your daily workout in under the sun.
Fishtown Beer Runners
When: Every Thursday at 7 p.m. Where: Start at 2346 E Susquehanna Ave Cost: Free!
Fishtown Beer Runners is a club of runners from all over the city who gather once a week to run three to five miles and end at a local pub for some post-run beers. The FBRs were voted Best Running Club by Philadelphia Magazine “Best Of Philly” awards in 2012 and 2013. The FBRs started their club after learning about a study done by doctors that beer can actually hydrate you after exercise. If you’re a runner and also like to socialize and have a couple drinks, this club is a fun way to get your daily exercise in around the city. 21+.
Yoga On the Banks
When: Tuesday, Saturday, and Sunday mornings. Where: Grass area at 25th and Locust, near the Schuylkill River Banks Boardwalk. Cost: Free, donations are appreciated
Yoga On the Banks was started in April 2014 when a yoga teacher was inspired by the success of Yoga on the Pier and the yoga program on the Delaware River and wanted to bring accessible outdoor yoga to the western part of Philly. This year, Yoga On the Banks has grown with an expanded class schedule and expanded teacher base. Yoga in itself is a great way to get in touch with your inner zen, but outdoor yoga provides even more inner- freedom and relaxation with the fresh air and green surroundings.
Indego Bike Sharing
When: Bikes available 24/7, 365 days a year. Where: Stations located throughout Center City and Delaware River area. Cost: Without a membership, $4 for every 1/2 hour.
Philly is also becoming more easily accessible with it’s newest innovation, Indego Bike Sharing. With over 600 self-service bikes and 60 stations strategically placed around communities, Indego makes it easy and cheap for Philadelphians to ride around and get some fresh air on a nice day, or to use the bikes as their sole mode of transportation around the city. Whatever you decide to use Indego for, it’s simple, clean, reliable, and a great workout.
Canoe with Perks
When: Every Thursday from mid-May – September. Where: John James Audubon Center at Mill Grove. Cost: $15
If you’re looking for an excuse to get out of the city and into the greener suburbs, a guided canoe tour on a quaint creek can be just what you need for your short getaway. The price includes a canoe, oars, a lifejacket, and a guided tour by one of the Perkiomen Creek educators. The guide will take you on a relaxing and informative tour of the scenic nature around the creek, pointing out animals, bugs, and trees. This calm afternoon of nature on a canoe is a great way to stay active, not to mention, it’s much cooler in the woods.
Saturday Wellness Walks
When: Last Saturday of every month at 2 p.m. Where: Schuylkill Center for Environmental Education, 8480 Hagys Mill Rd, Philadelphia Cost: Free!
The Schuylkill Center offers a Wellness Walk for adults, an invigorating walk through their scenic nature trails. The walk is led at a moderate pace on a generally level trail, giving participants friendly companions, open skies, and clear air. If you’re feeling lazy or sluggish in the summer heat, take advantage of the opportunity to replenish and re-fuel your health and mind through the peace of nature.
