LA Guide to Outdoor Workouts

As somebody who was born and raised in Los Angeles, we do have a tendency to brag about how great the weather is. Which is why we take advantage of the good weather by doing our physical activities outside all year-round. 

So if your ever visiting LA and want to take advantage of all the sunshine, here is a list of outdoor activities we recommend. And if you are from LA, we also included items that are not as well known. 

1. Riding Bikes by the Beach- Bike ride or run the 2 mile stretch from Venice to Santa Monica. Not only do you get enjoy a view of the boardwalk and beach, but the bike rentals are only $20 for the entire day. 

2. Baldwin Hill Steps- This long and windy walk up the hill and what may seem like a never ending stair cases is well worth the exercise for an amazing view of LA. 

3. NTC Club Classes- Looking for a boot camp class that is both free and have amazing instructors? Check out the Nike NTC classes that located at several Nike Shops in LA, such as the one in Santa Monica Promenade or The Grove. After your work out, you can reward yourself with some shopping.

4. Hikes with Views of LA- Probably the most famous hike is Runyon Canyon, which is also known for celebrity sighting and a great view of LA. Another less crowded spot is the Wattles hike, which is the twin peak of Runyon. 

Photo from Modern Hiker

5. Muscle Beach- This beach has been known to build and strut those muscles since the 1930's, so we had to add it to the list. This area of Venice beach has an outdoor gym (daypass is $10), and another area of beach with gymnastic bars and rope climbing. So get a workout in one of the most iconic gyms in the world.

6. Dance Downtown LA- If dancing is your preferred cardio then attend the LA Music Center dance party every other weekend in the summer. Each week is new dance style and they bring instructors to teach each style. You can even bring your own food and drinks, so have a party and a workout.

Music Center Photo

7. Yoga Outdoors- What sounds better than practicing yoga under warmth of the sun? If this sounds something you might like, try a yoga class outside at Runyon Canyon, Downtown Grand Park, or on a helipad of a rooftop. But our top choice is Yogaulation on Bluff Park because who wouldn't love to have a free yoga class with an ocean view.

8. Manhattan Beach Sand Dunes- Try changing up the typical cardio choices, and run up the Manhattan Beach sand dunes. This 100 feet high sand dunes is harder than it looks, so prepare to feel the burn! FYI reservations are required ahead of time to reduce crowding.

Save The San Dunes Photo

9. Surf, Kayak, or Paddle Board- These three options are great ways to enjoy the pacific ocean and get a workout in, and of course we have plenty of beaches to choice from. The most popular being Malibu and for good reasons. But if want to be different, try kayaking down the LA river for a different perspective of the city.

10. Hikes with Ocean Views- If you prefer a hike with a view of the ocean, some of the best are Corral Canyon and Parker Mesa. For myself, I really love the trails in Palos Verdes because they are not as well known, so it is just you and the ocean.

Mark Weston Photo