Getting outside is good for the body, mind, and spirit, and exercise is essential. So, why not combine the two? Getting out in nature can be a game-changer for our health and well-being; it can also make exercise feel less like a chore and more like a renewal. “Green exercise” — exercise surrounded by nature — boasts many health benefits that the gym can’t match. If the idea appeals to you, but you don’t want to go it alone, try a few of these outdoor fitness classes in Birmingham!
Goat Yoga Bham
Neighborhood: Helena
More Info: goatyogabham.com
Drive to this Helena farm for some fun and relaxing goat yoga. Goat Yoga Bham connects the health benefits of yoga with the calming presence of adorable goats. You’ll soak up the (goat) kids’ therapeutic energy while taking in the serenity of nature. Classes last one hour and are $30 per person. Goat Yoga Bham can also bring the kids to you for goat yoga parties or gatherings around Birmingham!
BHAM Babes Walking Club
Neighborhood: It varies! For Walking Club meetups, click HERE.
More Info: bhambabeswalkingclub.com
The BHAM Babes Walking Club will help you get in your steps while also getting out in nature, and the club goes far beyond a mere walk. What started as a modest group of 20 babes in 2023 has quickly exploded to over 4,000 members! They meet all over Birmingham and its outer suburbs to simply go on a walk together. All ages and fitness levels are welcome and no one gets left behind. Just find a walk near you and show up!
They also host a full calendar of social events, fitness classes, and even a book club.
Railroad Park Fitness Classes
Neighborhood: Southside
More Info: railroadpark.org
Railroad Park hosts outdoor fitness classes from April through October that get you outside and active. Through the “Get Healthy on the Railroad” exercise class initiative from Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Alabama, Magic City dwellers can enjoy a variety of free fitness classes starting at 6 p.m. Classes include Zumba, hip hop cardio, line dancing, yoga, boxing cardio, and senior fitness for older adults. Just show up, sign in, and get ready to move!
BUMP Mountain Biking Group Rides
Neighborhood: For a full list of BUMP’s group ride trails, click HERE.
More Info: BUMP.org
Birmingham is a haven for mountain biking, with nationally renowned trails right in our own back yard. The Birmingham Urban Mountain Pedalers (BUMP) exists to enjoy, protect, and maintain these beloved trails around the Magic City. Joining BUMP will connect you to monthly group rides, which are open to all skill levels. They frequent the trails at Oak Mountain State Park, Tannehill State Park, Trussville City Park, and more.
Whether you are new to mountain biking or a seasoned pro, BUMP gets you out on the trail and connected to other cyclists.
Redemptive Cycles Group Rides
Neighborhood: Downtown
More Info: redemptivecycles.com
If a casual city ride is more your style, join the next trample group ride with Redemptive Cycles. Every Thursday evening, cyclists of all ages and skill levels ascend the streets of downtown for a guided ride hosted by the cycling pros at Redemptive Cycles. They change up the route each week, so you’ll experience the city in a fresh, new way while working in some cardio. Meet the group behind the Redemptive Cycles shop and get ready to ride!
Fit4Mom Outdoor Classes
Neighborhood: Find a Fit4Moms class near you HERE.
More Info: birmingham.fit4mom.com
Fit4Mom seeks to support every stage of motherhood. Starting with prenatal fitness, it hosts a variety of outdoor workout classes to keep mamas of all fitness levels active through the postnatal stage and beyond. Realizing that mothers also need to be able to exercise with their kiddos in tow, you can even take classes like Stroller Barre, which utilizes the stroller in a class of body strengthening and mobility exercises.
Classes meet in parks and community centers around Birmingham, and enrollment is required. Grab the littles and get out and active alongside a Fit4Mom mom squad!
Go Kickball
Neighborhood: Glen Iris
More Info: gokickball.com
Remember how much fun kickball was when you were a kid? Even if it wasn’t your game, Go Kickball makes it a blast with its adult leagues. Teams are co-ed, and the goal is to provide a comfortable, non-intimidating vibe for you to enjoy the game. You can choose one of the carefree “Social” teams or join a more competitive league. However you want to play, Go Kickball will get you outside and feeling like a kid again.
F3 Men’s Outdoor Fitness Club
Neighborhood: Find an F3 Club near you HERE.
More Info: f3nation.com
F3 is a national network of free, peer-led workouts for men. Designed for men of all fitness levels, the group follows a no-nonsense exercise model with no sign-ups, required equipment, or fuss. Find a meeting and attend — rain or shine! Most classes around the Magic City are early in the morning, so set your alarm, get ready to catch the sunrise, and start your day with an open-air workout with the guys.
Get outside and get moving, Birmingham!
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