Whether your exercise of choice is running, biking, water sports, or yoga, there are endless opportunities to burn calories and build muscle while enjoying that beautiful Chicago summer air. Here, just a few for you to try.
Summer Camp by Equinox
Looking for more than a one-day workout? Sign up for session two of Equinox’s version of summer camp—an outdoor boot camp series starting August 5. Spend four Tuesdays and Thursdays toning up outside at the gym’s Lincoln Park location. You’ll be rewarded with a power breakfast by Freshii; plus, you’ll have access to the entire club for the duration of the program. 1750 N. Clark St., 312-254-4000
Millennium Park Workouts
Experience Millennium Park’s Great Lawn by the Jay Pritzker Pavilion in a different way, with a variety of workouts like Tai Chi, Pilates, and Zumba. The 45-minute classes are hosted every Saturday from 7-11 a.m. through September 6—with new instructors and Zumba drummers (that’s right: your high-energy class will be accompanied by high-energy live music) taking over on August 9 to keep things interesting. 201 E. Randolph St., 312-742-1168
Attend Yoga on the Plaza this weekend.
Langham Chicago's Yoga On the Plaza
Work on your downward dog while taking in downtown views on The Langham Hotel’s outdoor plaza. The hotel’s Chuan Spa & Health Club is hosting Yoga on the Plaza from 10-11:00 a.m. on July 19. Bonus? The hotel’s causal eatery, Elle on the River, will open its doors early for yoga participants, so you can brunch on those much-deserved tacos. 330 N. Wabash Ave., 312-923-9988
Learn to Stand Up Paddleboard by REI
Looking for a workout with a more adventurous twist? You’re in luck: REI’s Outdoor School includes all sorts of unique classes. Take a stab at this year’s workout du jour with a Learn to Stand Up Paddleboard (SUP) class on July 18 at Jackson Park Harbor. Once you’ve mastered this trendy water activity, you can use your skills for Sunset SUP Yoga on July 27. 6400 S. Coast Guard Drive; 773-288-1065
Do yoga and give back with buildOn
Sun Salutations and Service Yoga Series by buildOn
“Feel-good workout” takes on a whole new meaning with the Sun Salutations and Service Yoga Series. The summer exercise events—including Yoga Fest at Oz Park in Lincoln Park on July 27—hosted by buildOn celebrate Chicago students overcoming odds to change their neighborhoods. The proceeds from the series will benefit buildOn’s community programming. 2021 N. Burling St., 312-742-7898