January is one of the busiest months for gym memberships, as people try to make good on their New Year’s weight loss resolutions. But there is an easier (and cheaper) way to keep fit in the new year, using resources right at your fingertips.
This year, why not try fitness Parks & Recreation-style? City of Carlsbad Parks & Recreation has lots of fun, budget-friendly fitness options, all right in your neighborhood that also connect you with new people and with your community.
Try a fitness class for a fraction of the cost at one of the city’s three community centers or at the Carlsbad Senior Center. Enjoy a high-energy workout? Try cardio sculpt, Jazzercise, or Zumba Fitness, which incorporates Latin beats and dance moves in a party-like atmosphere. Looking for something to strengthen body, mind and spirit? Tai Chi, yoga and qi-gong are more meditative forms of exercise that also work to improve balance and flexibility.
For those looking to complement an existing workout or just get that extra bit of motivation, the Masters Swim program at the Monroe Street Pool is an excellent option. With coaching tailored to individual ability, these supervised, structured workouts are perfect for cross-training, conditioning or increasing overall fitness. Early morning and lunch time sessions are offered Monday through Friday; a Saturday morning session is also available. Monthly discount passes are also available, or pay just $4 per workout for Carlsbad residents.
For some, being social or acquiring new skills are important motivators for fitness. One fun way to stay active and social is through dance. The city offers a variety of adult dance classes, from country line dancing, to belly dancing, to salsa and meringue, and traditional Hawaiian dance. No partner required! Another popular form of fitness is martial arts. Karate, soo bahk doo, and kendo Japanese swordsmanship are all offered with the same level quality instructors as private martial arts studios but at much more affordable rates.
Practicing a new sport is another great way to stay in shape while being social. Tennis and volleyball classes are available, or take a golf lesson at The Crossings at Carlsbad. The city also offers two seasons of adult sports leagues at various parks throughout the city. Basketball, soccer and softball leagues are all provided with an emphasis on sportsmanship and fair play.
For more spontaneous types, the city’s two gymnasiums located at Calavera Hills and Stagecoach community centers offer a variety of pick-up activities, such as basketball, volleyball and badminton. Carlsbad was one of the first cities in the county to offer pickleball, a fast-paced racquet sport that is something of a cross between ping pong, tennis and badminton. Pickleball is one of the fastest growing sports in the nation because of the ease of play; it was specifically designed so that players both young and old can easily match skill and agility. Check the city website for current open play activities and times.
The city’s trail system is a very popular and economical way to make fitness a regular habit. With more than 40 miles of trails throughout the city, a scenic outdoor workout is always just steps away from your neighborhood, school or workplace.
The fitness options for adults age 50 and older are plentiful, thanks to programs and amenities available at the Carlsbad Senior Center. A modern 1,202-square-foot fitness room, complete with cardio equipment, weight training machines and free weights, is available 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. Friendly volunteers provide all visitors with a complimentary orientation and help to ensure a safe, clean environment. Try a one-day pass or purchase convenient monthly, quarterly or annual memberships. Many free or low-cost fitness classes are also offered on a regular basis, including low-impact aerobics, laughter yoga and soccer golf.
To check out more on these and many other Parks & Recreation activities, visit carlsbadca.gov/parksandrec.?
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