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Top 10 places to workout in Charlottesville

t may seem easy to avoid exercise, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, but one of the most beneficial things we can do for our body, mind and health is to stay active.

<p>Madison Workman is a Top 10 writer for The Cavalier Daily.</p>

Madison Workman is a Top 10 writer for The Cavalier Daily.

1. Zoom Charlottesville

If you enjoy cycling, cardio or boxing classes, Zoom’s rhythm-based classes are a refreshing way to switch up an average workout routine. The studio, located off of Barrack’s Road, has a mirrored wall that lights up, adding a unique element to the class and the loud, upbeat music evokes high energy and motivation. They also offer in-studio video rides for $59 a month if you feel more comfortable taking a class via a video projector rather than an instructor. If you are a new client to Zoom, you can purchase a three class pack for $25 that includes cycle, sculpt and training classes. The studio is open every day of the week from 5:30 a.m. until 8 p.m. 

2. Tread Happy 

Whether you consider yourself a runner or not, Tread Happy is inclusive to anyone looking to put a different spin on a classic form of running. Some classes incorporate weights and circuit training, others involve yoga and some are focused just on running. With a variety of different types of training and an atmosphere that is immersive and engaging, you can cater your workout to your own ability and experience level. The studio is located off Main Street on 8th Street NW and is open most days from 5:30 a.m. to 8:30 a.m. and 4 p.m.  to 7:30 p.m. Prices for a new client begin at $42 for an unlimited two weeks of classes, and there are unlimited student packs starting at $145. 

3. FlyDog Yoga 

If you are looking to strengthen your muscles, increase your flexibility and cleanse your mind, FlyDog Yoga, located on Millmont Street, offers a perfect place to do so. This power vinyasa studio incorporates a robust series of postures that include movement and breathing exercises that allow you to destress and focus on your mind and body. The studio rooms are heated, which will increase your lung capacity and will help you to focus more on your breathing — the key to relaxation and stress-relief. If you are new to FlyDog, there is a student introductory offer of three classes in 30 days for $30. Their standard membership is $50 for five classes per month. FlyDog is open every day of the week and their hours vary. 

4. Pure Barre 

This type of workout is inspired by the elements of ballet, yoga and pilates. Pure Barre incorporates low-impact, high-intensity movements that will strengthen your whole body in a way that is unique to other types of workouts. If you want to increase your muscle endurance or enhance your balance, give this sculpting workout a try. Pure Barre is located on Old Ivy Road and the studio is open Mondays through Thursdays from 5:45 a.m. to 7 p.m. Their hours vary Fridays through Sundays. Their membership prices begin at $79 for a four pack of classes. 

5. Formula Complete Fitness

If you want to improve your strength, stamina and endurance, try out Formula Complete Fitness located off of Preston Avenue. This studio offers a variety of different class types — some which include an equilibrium class that integrates interval running and strength training, a flex class that focuses on strength and dynamic flexibility and a flow class that incorporates both running and yoga. For new clients, Formula offers three classes for $20 and one month of unlimited classes for $99. The atmosphere, which encompasses bright neon lights and pump-up music, is motivating and encouraging. Every time I go to Formula, I leave feeling rejuvenated, energized and a part of the community there. The studio is open most days from 6 a.m. to 6:15 p.m., but hours do vary some so make sure to confirm the hours online before you go. 

6. Rivanna Trail Run 

For a cost-efficient workout, try running or walking along the Rivanna Trail. This outdoor experience will allow you to immerse yourself in nature and enjoy an excursion along the water. The trail surrounds Charlottesville for 20 miles and encompasses a variety of different trail surfaces, allowing you to choose a section of the trail that best suits your preferred running style. 

7. Walk around Grounds

Some days, our bodies may feel overtired and fatigued. Exercising does not mean you have to immerse yourself in a high-intensity workout or push yourself to extreme limits. Simply taking a walk around Grounds will allow you to integrate an active element into your day, clear your mind and improve your mood. For some of us, incorporating a brisk walk into our daily routine is the best way to maintain a healthy lifestyle and strengthen our bodies. 

8. Try out a YouTube video 

This is one of my favorites. On days where I find myself lacking motivation and can’t bring myself to get outside and go on a run, I open my laptop and pull up a workout video on YouTube. If you’ve never tried this, you will be surprised to find the variety of different workouts that are available for free just at the click of a button. The best part of it all — you feel as though you are in a virtual class with an instructor motivating you and pushing you to do your best. 

9. Meditation app 

Have you ever thought about meditation as a form of exercise? In order to maintain good health, we also need to be mentally calm and emotionally stable. A meditation exercise can be as simple as performing breathing exercises or sitting outside and quietly reflecting. Meditation can help to enhance your mindfulness and cultivate a sense of inner peace into your daily life. There are many apps available to us that can help to structure your meditation practices. A couple that I recommend are Headspace and Calm. 

10. Hike Old Rag Mountain 

Hiking is a powerful cardio workout that comes with a variety of perks such as beautiful views, fresh air and the immersion into nature. In Charlottesville, there are many accessible hikes, but one of my favorites is Old Rag Mountain. This hike, while quite challenging with an 8.8 mile distance and rock scramble, offers one of the best panoramic views of Charlottesville. Set aside this hike for a day-long weekend activity. Another great hike to try out that is less challenging is Humpback Rock. 

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