Those visiting Indianapolis for the Super Bowl this week may be most concerned about celebrity sightings, fancy parties, the zip line in the Super Bowl Village, or the NFL experience, but that doesn’t mean that they will want to forsake their fitness habits entirely. With hotels packed to the gills and many renting out local homes for the week, the miniature hotel gym may not be the best option for everyone. Luckily, Indianapolis offers a variety of fitness options unique to the Circle City.
I am a big fan of running, even in the snow. Although it might require additional gear to run outdoors, we have had a sunny and unseasonably warm January which is predicted to continue past the big game. Indianapolis offers several trails that are great for runners, walkers or bikers; check out the Canal Walk, the growing Cultural Trail downtown, and the Monon Trail, which extends from the northeast side of downtown through Carmel and Westfield. Take your outdoor exercise a step further by jogging the steps at the Indiana War Memorial located just north of the Circle on Meridian Street.
If you want to take your workout indoors, here is a look at the best places to workout in Indianapolis.
The Indy Bike Hub YMCA is a joint venture of the City of Indianapolis, Bicycle Garage Indy, and the YMCA of Greater Indianapolis. For those who commute downtown by bicycle, they offer bike parking. For those looking for a work out, there is cardio and strength equipment, weights, personal trainers, and group classes. In addition, Bicycle Garage Indy offers repairs, rentals, and a full bike shop. Both downtown YMCA locations are prepared to offer day and guest passes for visitors. The Indy Bike Hub YMCA is also connected to the historic City Market where you can check out foodie items, farmers market goods, and awesome pop up shops.
The YMCA at Atheneum is located in the historical Athenaeum in the Mass Ave Arts district. It has been the place to go for downtown residents for years. It contains 40 cardio machines, weight equipment, group fitness classes, and a full line of Cybex VR3 strength equipment. Both downtown YMCA locations are prepared to offer day and guest passes for visitors.
Invoke Yoga and Pilates is my preferred downtown option for vinyassa yoga, hot yoga, mat and reformer Pilates classes. Their website describes their home as “located in the old Buschman Building (a circa 1871 building featured in Indianapolis Then & Now) in the ‘hip & historic’ St. Joseph district, Invoke Studio showcases 15-foot ceilings, hardwood floors, and loft-like exposed duct work.” It is friendly to beginners and new students with instructors who will help you reach your yoga potential.
There are other creative fitness options around the city beyond downtown. Dance classes are often a fun way to work out and socialize at the same time. Indy Hula will offer classes on Saturday at Riolo dance studio downtown. IntoSalsa will be offering classes on Wednesday at the Red Room and Thursday at the Jazz Kitchen on Thursday before Latin Dance Party. You can also swing dance at the Jazz Kitchen Tuesday evening.
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