Here’s Where to Find Free Yoga, Meditation, & Fitness in NYC This Summer
New York is a wellness mecca– but that doesn’t always mean that wellness is accessible.
Fortunately, New York is also a city that loves free outdoor events.
Herewith, we’ve pulled together a list of all the places you can head for free fitness in NYC parks this summer. (A quick heads up– whether or not you signed up for hot yoga, you will be experiencing hot yoga, courtesy of the sun.) Bring a picnic and chill afterwards, or head to your fave healthy eatery to refresh. What better way to enjoy the end of summer?
What: Sacred Sounds Yoga
Where: Garibaldi Plaza in Washington Square Park
When: every Wednesday from 8:30AM to 9:30 AM between 6/7/2017 and 8/31/2017
Shake up morning commute by enjoying your space with morning yoga in Washington Square Park. Trade in holding your breath, clinging to the pole, and being squashed against doors for deep breathing, comfortable movement, and gentle stretching.
What: Yoga For All
Where: varies
When: varies
This summer, Prospect Park has lined up several different types of yoga for visitors of all ages and skills to partake in, from “Zen Zoo Kids Yoga” to “Healing Hatha Yoga.” Times and dates are available across the week and weekend no matter your schedule.
What: Ballet Barre
Where: Pier 2 Promenade
When: every Monday from 7:00 AM to 8:00 AM between 6/5/2017 and 8/7/2017
Start the week off right with a round of ballet barre along the waterfront. Engage your muscles for a full body workout utilizing traditional ballet positions, techniques, and postures.
What: Yoga In The Grove
Where: Naval Cemetery Landscape
When: every Wednesday from 6:30 PM to 7:30 PM until 9/27/2017
Combining Vinyasa and Hatha yoga techniques, the hump-day yoga event is open to anyone looking to improve their balance, strength, and flexibility of body and mind. (Note: though the event is free, you will need to register!)
What: Yoga Flow on the Hudson
Where: North Lawn at 78th Street in Riverside Park
When: every Thursday from 6:30 PM to 7:30 PM between 5/11/2017 and 9/28/2017
Need to take a little bit longer than a New York minute? Head to an hour of mindful breathing, movement, strength, balance, flexibility, and focus. The full spectrum yoga class serves multiple levels with modifications and intensifications, courtesy of Nina Semczuk.
What: Pilates in the Park
Where: The Plaza at 66th Street in Riverside Park
When: every Tuesday from 6:30 PM to 7:30 PM between 6/6/2017 and 8/29/2017
Each Tuesday night this summer, Melissa Ricci (from Base Fitness) offers a multi-level class based on the principles of Pilates. Participants can look forward to an hour of toning muscles and strengthening the core. Be sure to bring your own mat!
What: Weekend Yoga
Where: Socrates Sculpture Park
When: every Saturday (9:30 AM to 10:30 AM & 11 AM to 12 PM) and Sunday (10 AM to 11 AM) between 5/6/2017 and 9/3/2017
Saturdays are led by Morgan Miller and bring together a well-rounded balance of physical poses, breathing techniques, relaxation, and meditation. Sundays, led by Yojaida Estrella, tend towards a Vinyasa style, with particular awareness brought to the breath. While you’re there, don’t forget to take in the art!
