Taking a trip to New York City is the prime opportunity to relax and let loose. However, if you’re training to meet a goal or you’re just an active individual, a vacation is no reason to throw away your progress. Luckily, you can have it all.
Here are eight different ways to see New York City while staying active.
Kayak the Hudson River
See New York City from a different angle while kayaking the Hudson River. This takes you out of the shadows of the buildings, presenting the perfect opportunity to see the entirety of the Big Apple’s skyline. There are multiple paid and free options for kayaking the Hudson River, both with guided tours and self-led excursions.
Join an Organized Swim to the Statue of Liberty
Depending on the time of year you travel, you may be able to join an organized swim to the Statue of Liberty. Not only will this swim be a fantastic feat of athleticism, but it also makes for an awesome story when you get home. If you can’t align with one of the swim groups, there are multiple public pools throughout the city where you can do a few laps to break up the day. Just don’t try to swim out to the statute on your own, or you’ll probably end up in jail.
Climb at Brooklyn Boulders
Brooklyn Boulders is a massive warehouse-turned-gym that features climbing walls for novices and pros alike. They even have a wall shaped like the iconic Brooklyn Bridge! With over 22,000 square feet of climbing space, Brooklyn Boulders offers both classes and private instruction options.
Bike Through Central Park
Central Park is a New York City icon and definitely a must-see for travelers. To get the most of this expansive 843-acre wonder, consider booking a Central Park bike tour. See the different historical sites, various monuments, discover the hidden secrets of the park, and enjoy the outdoors as you exercise. If biking isn’t your forte, you can always go by foot.
Do Yoga at The Battery
The Battery– also known as Battery Park– is a 25-acre expanse with stunning views of the harbor. In the summer months, you can participate in an instructor-led yoga class on the Battery Woodland Lawn. If you are visiting outside this time frame, there’s no reason why you can’t grab a mat and do your own yoga practice on the edge of the New York waterfront.
Box at Gleason’s Gym
Float like a butterfly, sting like a bee, and train like Ali at Gleason’s Gym. The oldest active boxing gym in America, Gleason’s Gym has hosted many of the greats, including Ali, Tyson, and Foreman. This gym isn’t the place for a trendy group workout; if you hit Gleason’s, prepare to sweat with the best of them.
Kickflip at Pier 62
If you’re an avid skateboarder, New York City might be your heaven. While there are numerous skate parks throughout the five boroughs, Pier 62 in Chelsea has the most ramps. Complete with dips, rails, snake runs, and a ten-foot-deep bowl, Pier 62 is the perfect place for skateboarding thrill-seekers.
Hike the Greenbelt
At the heart of Staten Island, you can find a vast wilderness known as the Greenbelt. Within this wooded haven is 35-miles of marked hiking trails. Leave the city lights and immerse yourself in the calming power of nature. Try the 12.3-mile long Blue Trail for a straightforward yet lengthy jaunt. For a shorter, more challenging hike try the 8-mile long Yellow Trail.
Remember to Pack Accordingly
If you’re planning on moving and grooving while in New York City, remember to pack accordingly. Try and plot out what activities you would like to try in advance so you’ll be prepared. However, don’t panic if you find something different to try while you’re down there. Remember the golden rule of packing: only take half of what you think you will need and twice as much money. Worst case scenario, you can always go back again!
