Alright, friends. We know that hearing about another shutdown was tough, especially on those who rely on working out to stay sane. We’re living through tough times, but we’re lucky enough to live in a city with so many beautiful green spaces, and for that, we should be thankful! In fact, these grassy nooks are not only perfect for picnicking, but they’re also solid for breaking a sweat! Here are 12 awesome outdoor workout spots you can find in Calgary.
HIKE NOSE HILL
Not ready to head for mountains just yet this season? We don’t blame you. Those who are jonesing to hit the hills can condition right here within the city! Lace-up and climb Nose Hill, Canada’s 4th largest urban park. Maybe bring along a friend or your dog to keep you company!
Where: 5620 14 St NW, Calgary, Alberta
CLIMB THE MEMORIAL STAIRS
Looking for something a little harder? Well, we can guarantee that you’ll find it halfway up the Memorial Stairs. Known for being where Calgary’s fittest folk go for an inner-city jaunt, these bad boys are a total pain in the ass – quite literally.
Where: McHugh Bluff, Crescent Rd NW & Centre Street N, Calgary
BIKE ALONG THE BOW
This spring, stretch those legs and go for an afternoon bike ride along Calgary’s gorgeous Bow River. Whether you choose to start in the inner city or hit Carburn, Fish Creek, or Bowmont Park you’ll knock off leg day, get some fresh air, and above all actually enjoy yourself.
TAKE A ‘HIKE’ AT FISH CREEK
This may or may not surprise some of you, but with 11 hiking, running, walking, and snowshoeing trails, Fish Creek is actually the second largest urban park in Canada. Needless to say, if you really commit to it, you can get some serious steps in.
Where: See directions here
TRY TO KEEP UP WITH FIDO AT SUE HIGGINS DOG PARK
If you’re a dog owner who maybe hasn’t worked out in a few months and are looking to stretch those legs, Sue Higgins Park is might be a great place to start. As Calgary’s largest off-leash area, you and your furry friend can both get in a spring workout – one that won’t leave you in pain the next day.
Where: Southland Drive and Deerfoot Trail SE – Directions here
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CRUSH LEG DAY AT THE GLENCOE STAIRS
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Another flight of stairs? Yes, folks you better believe it. With gyms closed and fitness parks a little iffy, stairs are a bomb way to work up a sweat. However, because (let’s be real) they suck, it’s important that your surroundings are at the very least, pretty to look at and the Glencoe Stairs are exactly that!
Where: See directions here
DO A SELF GUIDED BOOTCAMP AT BOWMONT PARK
This particular park is honestly full of surprises. Bowmont has fields, flowers, wildlife, and even a waterfall or two, all of which will keep your eyes wandering and occupied. Wander through towering trees and pick a perfect-for-you spot and kick your own butt while breathing in some fresh air.
Where: 85 St. NW, Calgary
HIT THE SHAW MILLENIUM ‘BEACH’ VOLLEYBALL COURTS
Calgary isn’t blessed with coastline beaches, palm trees, or consistent weather, but there are places we can go to forget that – and man, are we thankful. This spring, take off those shoes, rally your pals and get competitive at one of Shaw Millenium’s three sandy volleyball courts, because who said fitness can’t be fun?
Where: 1220 9 Ave. SW, Calgary
BUST YOUR BUTT AT THE ALTADORE STAIRS
Ready, set, climb! The stairs in the Altadore Dog Park will do the absolute most for you if you’re already running through the area. If not, hit these a few times to really feel the burn! The best part? The amount of shade you’ll get thanks to the surrounding trees.
Where: See directions here
PARTICIPATE IN A FREE OUTDOOR YOGA CLASS AT STANLEY PARK
Inhale, exhale, stretch and sweat at Stanley Park’s all-ages, totally free Yoga class. After the year we’ve just had, there’s really no better way to spend an afternoon than by getting in a workout while breathing in some fresh air with your toes in the grass.
When: Sundays starting in May (weather/restrictions depending)
Where: 1300 12 Street Northeast
Time: 1 pm
RUN EDWORTHY PARK
Edworthy is a magical park with an off-leash dog run, greenery, and a relaxing ‘middle-of-nowhere vibe. Climb the stairs to – what we can only describe as Teribithia-like wooded areas, and break a sweat while you run through the beautiful Lawry Gardens.
Where: 5050 Spruce Dr. SW, Calgary
HIT THE RIVER PARK STAIRS
Want to climb a few flights without a crowd? The River Park stairs are far less populated than most and – as a bonus, are one of the most beautiful. Surrounded by trees, bushes, and flowers, River Park will put a little whimsy into your workout. It’s not the most popular outdoor workout spot in Calgary, but that makes it even better for breaking a sweat.
Where: See directions here
There you have it folks, 12 of the best outdoor workout spots in Calgary. Hit the hills, the stairs or a field and break a sweat. Maybe we’ll see you out there!
