Known for being nature-oriented, Austin creates opportunities to stay in shape throughout the seasons. Whether indoor or outdoor activities, the city provides many ways to be active without spending much money. The Daily Texan found four places that are a 20-minute drive or less from campus that students can visit to stay in shape this summer.
Lady Bird Lake Trail – 15-minute drive from campus
Locals know this trail for its great view of the city, but Lady Bird Lake Trail also remains a good way to get daily cardio. Tracking ten miles long, this trail includes many scenic points throughout the walk, such as the nature around the trail preserved by The Trail Conservancy. The trail has several access points with free parking, due to its location within the city, making it a great choice for nature lovers looking to exercise on a budget.
Pure Barre Classes – 10-minute drive from campus
Located on East 6th Street, Pure Barre offers a free 30-minute first class to those starting out with Barre fitness. This workout style combines ballet and pilates and focuses on intense movements that utilize small weights, such as resistance bands or weighted balls. The classes typically last around 30 to 90 minutes and target different objectives, like strength, power, balance and flexibility. Prices range from $22 for a single class up to an unlimited class membership at $189 per month.
Swift Fit Yoga – 10-minute drive from campus
Located at Fareground Plaza, Swift Fit hosts free, open-to-the-public yoga classes. Every Sunday from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., the park hosts a Yoga and Chill event that focuses on relaxing movements combined with lo-fi music in the background. There are also vendors for attendees to shop from, and the Fareground offers 90 minutes of complimentary parking with a purchase from a vendor. Swift Fit also encourages people to utilize street parking or the garages located near the plaza, such as One Eleven Garage at 206 E Cesar Chavez St.
Rollerskating at Playland Skate Center – 20-minute drive from campus
Aside from traditional fitness activities, there are also fun ways to stay fit away from the summer heat, such as skating at Playland Skate Center. Admission is $16 and covers the entry fee and rollerskates. Open from 12 p.m. to 11 p.m., Monday through Thursday, the center features a large skating rink as well as other activities like arcade games and bowling. Rollerskating provides good cardio and muscle strengthening, and provides good practice for those looking to skate outdoors around different parks in Austin.
