1. Silent Dancing Disco
Silent Disco in Santa Monica could not be more soulful! It’s a workout but you would never know because the students are moving and groove! Everyone gives 100% energy, as you can see in the photos! So instead of taking a seat on the sand, get your dancing sneakers on and let the waves and the instructor take your breath away!
2. Beach Yoga
During my morning beach run, before all the beach goers arrive with their tents, chairs and snacks, the yogi’s crowd the shoreline!
During my morning beach run, my zig zag motion around all the yogis helps me get in those extra few miles! (Thank you yogis!) Enjoy a breath of fresh air while doing your downward dogs or warrior poses. Not only is it relaxing, but the scenery couldn’t be better!
Beach Yoga Socal has morning and sunset classes…and what a way to start or finish the day!
3.Boot Camp
One of the absolute best boot camps I’ve ever experienced is Sonki Fitness! The owner Sonki Hong is a leader amongst leaders! He expects his students to bring their ‘best self’ to class, so not only your best physical effort, but your best attitude! – they don’t disappoint either! Every person taking the class shows up early, ready to work and encouraging of other members! Sonki keeps it real telling everyone to ‘take it at their own pace.’
Every level of fitness is welcomed so don’t be shy! You could move like Cat Woman with an extra bounce in your step for the entire hour ! Or stop and take a break to catch your breath! -Both types take the class and there is only encouragement for all!
This boot camp challenges every muscle in your body from squats to sprints to planks and many more exercises! There’s always variety so you don’t get bored and muscles are continuously challenged!
The owner Sonki graduated from West Point. He was a Master Fitness Trainer where he trained others to be combat ready. Reading his biography, it highlighted that he trains by motivating his trainees.
I discovered his boot camp while training myself at the beach. I was passing some students, noticing how focused and determined they were. It was always that same determination I saw on different days from new students. And you don’t have to be a fitness addict to join! According to his reviews, there are many newbies to the fitness world who wanted ‘to get in shape.’ And recommended trying Sonki’s classes.
An in depth look at this boot camp is coming soon…because I’ve never felt so energized after a workout class!
4. Spin Class
Spinning with Beach Cycle Bike workouts has never been so inspiring! Watching the sunset, at the beach and taking care of your body is living your best life! Instead of grabbing a cocktail with your friends, grab a sunset, take a bike ride and meet new friends!
5. Stand Up Paddle Board
We’ve all seen those people that look like surfers but also carry a paddle with their board! Well it’s exercise and it’s fun! You can hang out, paddle and tour the ocean next to the dolphins. If you get sick of the same routine, this is a mood booster and killer arm workout!
You don’t have to own one to see if this is a sport you would like to add to the mix. You can rent the equipment and get lessons at paddle surf LA until you decide that this is a match made in heaven!
6. Jogging
Go for a casual run or meet your neighbors with L.A. Leggers! Take a walk in fact, on the looong 26 miles of path going through Venice Beach, Marina Del Rey, Playa Del Rey, Manhatten Beach all the way to Torrence! It is scenic and there are cafe’s all along the way!
7. Beach Volleyball
Along the Santa Monica Beach, there are a sea of volleyball nets! Everyone should play at least once! You’ll see all ability levels from beginners to players who look to be former professionals!
When you step on the court, don’t expect to be a fly on the wall- the ball comes fast and you need to get it over the net or risk disappointing your teammate! Santa Monica Beach Volleyball offers fitness classes for those of us wanting to change the workout routine!
8. Surfing
Does living by the beach mean everyone knows how to surf or has at least tried. Nope! And what a great workout it is! Get the family together for a workout class! The instructors teach every age. These photos are from the Surf School Academy in Santa Monica.
They have private and group packages. Choose to take a class with owner Marion or from one of their instructors, who, by the way, are very patient and encouraging! You can also donate to their charity while on her website which raises money for inner city kids who rarely, if ever, get a chance to swim in the ocean!
9. Bike Rides
You don’t have to be part of the Tour de France to workout on your bike! I’m also not including electric bikes here since this list is for working out.
You can have a casual bike ride with the family or finally spend time socializing with you friends! Santa Monica has a bike path stretching 26 miles! I would say pretty decent workout and ride! Smell the fresh ocean air, clear your mind and give your legs a workout!
10. Cross Fit
These classes are always full for a reason. You get and hour of one muscle challenge after the next- but with an ocean view! I took photos of some of the equipment used, but trust me, there are a lot of options to mix up the routines! Try a CrossFit class at DMN8 along with a boom box playing loud dance music, enthusiastic instructors and folks trying get their best workout on!
Bottom line, all these fitness classes aim to get you in shape, have fun and feel better! No need to get bored and give up! The classes I listed above happen to be my favorite. Don’t be shy! Try all of them! You’ll meet all the new kids in the neighborhood and maybe build some lasting bonds! In the comments let me know what your favorite beach workout is, or one that you want me to try and give a full report! Stay active and stay healthy!