Throughout the Coronavirus pandemic, experts have expressed the importance of fresh air and regular exercise. When many of our usual gyms and exercise spaces were closed this spring, outdoor fitness options became more popular than ever. Clarendon residents can easily jog through the neighborhood but for those who prefer something a little different, here are three great outdoor workouts in Arlington!

F45 

Join the F45 team at Pentagon Row on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday mornings throughout the summer for outdoor group workouts that will get the heart pumping! Unlimited Members can attend any of the outdoor or virtual classes as part of their membership, or you can attend a class as a drop-in guest for $15. These innovative, high intensity workouts are super social and sweat-inducing! The fitness brand has locations all over the country, but the Pentagon Row space is just a short distance from Clarendon. 

Formula Running Center

This training and recovery center located across the street from the Clarendon Metro Station offers indoor and outdoor classes to athletes of all levels. Residents at Lyon Place can check the schedule ahead of time for their outdoor offerings and sign up for the type of class that is the best fit. Currently, the gym offers HIIT, running, and yoga classes outdoors so there is something for everyone.  

Bike the Custis Trail

For those exercisers who want to get outside but prefer to avoid the organized group classes, the Custis Trail makes it easy to get in a sweat session any time of day. This hilly, ‘shared-use’ trail runs alongside Route 66 and takes Arlington residents from Rosslyn about five miles west where it meets up with the W&OD Trail. If you’re biking at a fast pace to keep your heart rate up, keep an eye out for joggers, walkers, and even the occasional scooter.

While exercising outdoors in the peak of DC summer might not feel appealing, research shows that exercise can boost the immune system and potentially help fight disease. Those who live in Arlington apartment buildings should check out these three local fitness options and aim to workout early in the morning before it gets too hot, or early evening after the sun starts to set. Stay healthy!