While you may be up for an outdoor jog or soccer match in February, brutal Florida summers make air conditioning an absolute necessity for working out. Luckily for you, summers are also the slow season for gyms, so many offer up some darn good deals to try to get your butt in the door.
The following are a list of great local spots that offer various types of exercise without breaking the bank. I highly suggest trying at least a couple, even (or especially) if it’s something you’ve never done before. You are much more likely to stick to a workout routine if it’s something you actually enjoy! These first two are currently my favorite ways to break a sweat with a smile.
SukhaLife Yoga
This new-ish studio (opened in November of 2017) is nestled in the heart of the Grand Central District. I cannot get enough of this place! My hubby always grunted at the idea of yoga, but he’s since become a SukhaLifa addict. The instructors are perfectly curated. Each has their own style, but every single one is amazing. The classes are often well-attended, but never jam-packed, which is huge. How can you relax when you’re worried your warrior three will land on the person wedged in six inches from you?
SukhaLife has generously offered Green Bench readers $5 for your first class. Just mention us when you show up! There are also a couple good summer deals worth trying: new students can purchase a three-pack of classes for $25 or pay $99 for two months of unlimited classes. You’ll get that sweet yoga body and be happy while you do it!
Barre Central
I have to admit that I really was not into Barre before I found this place. Other studios I’d visited seemed snooty and unwelcoming, so I was not expecting much when I agreed to check this one out. Holy crap – it was like night & day! Folks here are so friendly, and I just love the vibe. The classes are very challenging, but perfectly balanced. It is such a fantastic full-body workout. I always know I will be sore the next day…but in the best way possible.
Barre Central has also agreed to a special offer for Green Bench readers: three classes for $30. A three-pack is generally $55, and drop-in will set you back $20, so that’s a seriously good deal! If you prefer to just give it a try without any commitment, your first class is free.
Krazy Kardio
Maybe beating the heck out of stuff is your jam. It’s a great way to work out your aggression after a long day at the office! Sound good? Check out Krazy Kardio for some butt-whooping-but-still-enjoyable kickboxing. Your first class if free, but you do need to bring or buy gloves and hand wraps, so it is a bit of an investment. After your first go, the drop-in rate is $16, a ten-pack is $130, and prices vary for unlimited packs. Even if you’re not a fighter, I highly recommend trying a kickboxing class. Promise you won’t get kicked or punched!
Jazzercise
Like to get your dance on? Rock it old-school and hit up Jazzercise – leg warmers not necessary. The dancing is easy to follow, genuinely fun, and classes end with a bit of resistance training. You may be the youngest in the class, but these (mostly) ladies are no joke. You will definitely break a sweat! First class is free, then it’s $15 for a drop-in or $45 for monthly unlimited with a $50 signup fee.
Vertical Ventures
For a workout that doesn’t feel like you’re working out, there’s always climbing at Vertical Ventures’ St. Pete location. They have a pretty wicked good offer for newbies: $25 for an introductory class, complete with belay instruction, and a two-week intro membership that includes all your rental gear. Not too shabby, eh? After the initial two weeks, a monthly unlimited pass is $60, and regular daily admission with harness included is $18/day; $12/day for kiddos under twelve. Your best bet is to hit up their “happy hours.” Two-for-one admission on Fridays from 8-midnight and Saturdays from 6-10 pm. Active date night, anyone?
A few money-saving tidbits:
- If you dread going to workout, you won’t want to do it and will be wasting your membership. Try different places ‘til you find one you love!
- See if your insurance offers any programs that give you discounts on gym memberships. Many do.
- If you are interested in a membership, but money is tight, just tell that to the gym’s manager. Many will be willing to work with you. Never hurts to ask, right?
- Clean up your diet! After all, losing weight is 80% food choices and 20% exercise. Try going out to eat less, and you’ll have extra money for doing your favorite physical activity!
Have a happy, healthy summer, Burg-ers!
