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New Year, New You: The Best Places to Get Fit for Free in New York City   blog image

New Year, New You: The Best Places to Get Fit for Free in New York City

November 27 2023

It’s that time of year again when getting into shape is at the top of all our lists of priorities. But embarking on a new fitness journey doesn’t have to mean breaking the bank. In fact, New York is home to plenty of different ways to get fit without spending a cent.

But where are the best places to get fit for free in NYC?

people take part in yoga class in front of NYC skyline

Central Park is an obvious choice. As one of the biggest urban parks in the world, Central Park covers almost 850 acres – providing plenty of places to work out. The park is home to endless running, cycling, and even hiking trails, all of which are free to use. If running, jogging, or cycling isn’t your thing, there are also plenty of open spaces to enjoy yoga, HIIT workouts, or Pilates. Central Park is also home to several free outdoor gyms with basic equipment if you're looking for gym equipment without the cost.

If you love a morning (or evening) run, there are fewer better places in the city than the High Line. The High Line was originally an elevated railway line that has now been repurposed as a linear park offering views across the city. The High Line is 1.45 miles long, with plenty of space for working out. If you prefer to work out in a group, several different fitness classes are hosted at the High Line and are free to attend.

Legs of a runner in New York passing several taxi cabs

If you want to get fit but don’t have the time to fit it into your workday, why not switch up your commute and cycle to the office? Citi Bike has stations all over the city, and you can simply pick them up and drop them off wherever suits you. While the bikes aren’t entirely free, a monthly membership costs significantly less than using public transport.

NYC Parks Shape Up NYC offers several free fitness classes in parks all over the city. Whether you’d like to try a classic like yoga, mix it up with something fun like Zumba, or challenge yourself with a fitness bootcamp, there are free sessions to be found all over NYC led by certified instructors. Why not join a class this January?

One of the best ways to inspire yourself into sticking to your workout routine is working out with a great view. Hudson River Park offers some of the best views in the city and spans four miles along the river Hudson, making it one of the city’s best spots for your morning run.

If you’re visiting New York this New Year, check out the Hotel Beacon – your home from home in the heart of New York City.