After pigging out over the holidays, many of us are searching for ways to start the new year by leading healthier lifestyles. For those who prefer non-traditional gym settings, we’ve pulled together some exciting alternatives.
Just throw it at the bag at Polk Street Gym. // Photo courtesy of courtesy Polk Street Gym.
Boxing
Due to the intense cardio work, there are few workouts that help melt pounds quickly (with persistent practice, of course) like boxing, and San Francisco has several fine boxing gyms to choose from. Owned and operated by Irish transplant Simon Redmond who has fought in several Golden Glove Championships, Polk Street Gym is favored by beginners who never plan on setting foot in a ring as well as boxing enthusiasts. Novices are required to attend at least three “Beginner” classes, which teach the fundamental footwork, punches and include conditioning like jump roping, ab work and planks. The boot camps and circuit training classes are popular, and boxing classes for kids are also on the menu.
Climbing
At $73 per month for individual memberships with no time contracts required, access to three facilities in San Francisco, Belmont and Sunnyvale, unlimited climbing, unlimited yoga, discounted classes and more, Planite Granite offers a sweet deal for those who like a little variety in their regimen. Beginners can get acquainted with rock climbing in a clean indoor setting with gorgeous views across Crissy Field. Climbing class topics include Belaying, Beginning Rock Climbing (four-week introductory course), Bouldering, Climbing 201, Anchoring and Rappelling and beyond. Several types of yoga classes are offered, including Vinyasa, Candlelight Yin, Foundations of Flow, Mellow Flow and Abs & Core.
Windsurfing on the Bay. // Courtesy of Boardsports School & Shop.
Kiteboarding, Windsurfing and Stand Up Paddle Boarding
Started by two women who quit their corporate jobs to follow their passion for windsurfing, kiteboarding and stand up paddle boarding (SUP), Boardsports School & Shop is an invaluable resource for those who want to see what these sports are all about. They have exclusive teaching rights at Crown Beach Alameda and Coyote Point Park in San Mateo. Boardsports’ instructors are certified by the International Kiteboarding Organization and the Professional Air Sports Association.
Hiking Yoga
Hiking Yoga is exactly what it sounds like. Hikes originate under the clock tower at the Ferry Building and for the next 90 minutes, participants take advantage of San Francisco’s hilly and scenic terrain. It’s no leisurely stroll but a brisk space involving lots of stairs and hills punctuated by yoga poses, stretching and breathing. When the weather is nice, this beats any workout indoors. Drop-ins are $20 per session and cost per session decreases if you purchase more than one.
Dancing the carbs away at ODC Contemporary Dance class. // Courtesy of ODC.
Dance
With 200 classes per week for every skill level and an expanded space, ODC’s Rhythm & Motion Dance Program is a boon for anyone who is interested in dance or those who prefer to boogie their way through a workout. Newbies to ODC get their first class free. In addition to the school’s signature Rhythms classes that incorporates choreography with high-energy dance workouts and stretches, other disciplines include Tribal Belly Dance, Bollywood, Afro-Haitian, Afro-Brazilian, Ballet, Salsa, Tango, Contemporary, Pilates, Feldenkrais and more. Single classes are $14 with a $1 cash discount and class packages are available.
Duniya Dance & Drum Company focuses largely on dance and music from Punjab, India, Guinea and West Africa. Along with Bhangra classes, the West African Dance classes on Saturdays are accompanied by live drumming led by Bongo Sidibe from Guinea. Bongo also teaches West African Drumming classes here, where participants learn and practice “traditional rhythms from Guinea, West Africa”.
HOOP DREAMS Jessica BlueSkyy modeling hoops she creates. // Courtesy of Hoop the Flow.
Hooping
For those mesmerized by the movement and expressiveness of dance and hula hooping, Hoop the Flow may be an attractive option. Waist-whittling and arm-toning are only two of the myriad benefits to be reaped from this sensual art. There is a reason children find hooping fun, and these classes take it to the next level. Hoop the Flow classes are more about expression and embracing the body and movement than perfecting a rigid set of moves. Classes and workshops are available for various skill levels and the instructor, Stefana, also does private sessions.