Although I combine running and traveling regularly (whether it’s doing a destination race — I most recently ran the Chicago Marathon — or simply running in whichever city I find myself in as part of my training and sightseeing at the same time — I’ve shared my workout faves for my hometown of Toronto with Expedia this year), it’s only more in the last few years that I’ve been looking to incorporate more and more fitness fun during my travels.
Typically, I try to choose activities or classes that are unique to that area. Hiking is something I try to do whenever I can (especially since I find opportunities to do it in Toronto scarce, even more so when you don’t have a vehicle). But there are also loads of classes you can try in other cities that may be unavailable in your city. I tried Soulcycle in New York City and LA before they opened up studios in Toronto. In Park City, I did a phenomenal SUP yoga class in a hot spring that’s located in a crater.
And I love surfing and it isn’t an option here in TO so that’s always high on my list if there’s some decent waves for a beginner (I need so much practice!) and I’ve had the chance to take a lesson in places like Puerto Rico and Barbados.
And also in Huntington Beach. My very first surf lesson was in HB two years ago, and I had another lesson there a few months ago. On that same trip that brought me to several areas in Southern California, I also did a superb outdoor Spin class with stunning views, had a blast in a dance class, to name just a few of the workouts I got to try out. No wonder Cali girls are so fit, they have such great fitness options and inspiring scenic views for their outdoor sweat sessions.
I wrote about SoCal fit vacation options (including La Jolla, Huntington Beach, San Diego, and Santa Monica) for Travel & Style. It’s got me California dreaming again…sigh. You can check out my T&S article here.
Photos: Maxim Potvin
October 16, 2017
I have no idea what took me so long to realize this, but I much prefer outdoor workouts. I will almost always opt to run outside over the treadmill or an indoor track. And when it comes to yoga and group cycle classes–workouts that in and of themselves, I’m not personally a huge fan of–I’ve actually enjoyed when done outside with the breeze, blue skies, and sunshine.
Which is why I’m totally into the outdoor exercise classes being held all summer long at CF Shops at Don Mills. They’ve got both group cycle classes and yoga all season held in the Town Square. I had a chance to try out the group cycle class last week and I found it much more fun than being in a dark studio.
Plus, here’s another great reason to take advantage of these summer classes at CF Shops at Don Mills: you work up a sweat and can tick off your workout of the day from your to-do list, then you’re right at this great open-air shopping centre (did you know it’s Ontario’s first open-air mall of its type?), so you can treat yourself right away to both some retail therapy, and a delicious bite to refuel.
If you live nearby or it’s easy for you to get to, I recommend going to check it out. And, hello, the yoga classes are free! You can’t beat that price! Plus, the 50-minute group cycle classes are a very reasonable $15.
Here’s the nitty gritty details so you can plan your workouts:
Group cycle classes run every Tuesday and Thursday from now until August 31st at 9:30 a.m., 12:15 p.m. and 5:30 pm. The class happens rain or shine (the class is indoors if it’s raining btw). Just bring your running or Spin shoes.
The complimentary yoga classes happen every Sunday from now until September 3rd from 10:30 a.m. until 11:30 a.m. (and only if the weather permits — if it’s raining, class is cancelled). BYOM. That’s bring your own mat, but you yogis probably got that.
You do have to reserve your spot online, though! To register, head over to CF Shops at Don Mills to snag a spot in a class.
I’m hoping to round up some friends to go this summer, so maybe I’ll see you there!
(sponsored)
July 5, 2017
I’m always looking for new smoothie recipes (because I can get lazy and just make the same ol’ one over and over — like this zingy green smoothie is tasty, but it’s nice to have something new in the repertoire). This week, I was invited by Florida Orange Juice to a workout at OrangeTheory, and this creamy orange smoothie we enjoyed post-workout is a nice change from my usually berry-based ones. (Plus, while in general, I’m looking to reduce the sugar I drink on a regular basis, and have been using my Sodastream and my Bonne O to do so, I’m fine with some juice after a workout, and this one incorporates protein from the Greek yogurt — and your body needs replenishment of both after you’ve put it through a workout). Here’s the recipe:
Florida Orange Cinnamon Smoothie
- 1 1/2 cups Florida orange juice
- 6 oz low-fat vanilla-flavoured Greek yogurt
- 1/2 cup low-fat milk of your choice
- 1-2 cups ice (depending on what consistency you’d like for your smoothie)
- 1/4 tsp cinnamon
Combine the ingredients in a blender and blend til smooth and creamy. Makes 2 servings.
Cheers!
March 31, 2017
