Akron residents have lots of options for staying fit. From large gyms to personal trainers to outdoor hiking and riding trails, there are enough different options so that there’s no excuse not to get out there and get moving.
Running, Hiking and Biking
The Akron Metro Parks Hiking Club holds hikes throughout the Akron area, including Metro Parks trails the Cuyahoga Valley National Park, and Bike and Hike Trail. They also schedule hikes in other local parks, nature preserves and neighborhoods. Most hikes are 5 miles, but 3-mile leisure hikes and 7-mile (or longer) treks are also offered. The club is also a social group with events throughout the year.
For those that are looking to track their fitness progress, the Summit Athletic Running Club offers training and sponsors races, including 15K and 5K races and a cross country series. The club sponsors a youth track and field team for children in first through sixth grades.
There are three major biking trails that connect to create a network of bikeways, which offers something for everyone. The Summit Metro Parks Bike & Hike Trail runs parallel to the Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath and connects with the Emerald Necklace at Alexander Road. There is varying terrain, ranging from flat and straight to rolling and twisting. Surfaces varied at one time, but the network is nearly all asphalt now.
Gyms, Exercise Classes
Akron is home to dozens of gyms, ranging from those that focus on bodybuilding and weightlifting to Zumba classes, martial arts and the YMCA. The City of Akron Recreation Bureau operates two fitness centers. The Balch Street Fitness Center has a swimming pool, hot tub, sauna, workout area, basketball and racquetball courts, and offers classes in aerobics, cardio combo and swimming. The Citi Center Athletic Club offers classes in yoga, pilates, Zumba and more, as well as an indoor pool.
The Cuyahoga Valley National Park is the site of the Annual Summer Solstice Yoga Festival sponsored by Free Akron Yoga. The event is held on June 20 each year to celebrate the summer solstice and brings together yoga lovers from all over the area.
Akron General Hospital’s Cleveland Clinic offers three LifeStyles facilities with group exercise, personal training and aquatic programs for children and adults.
Keeping fit in Akron can be fun and easy, and with the wide variety of choices that are available, you can find the right activity for you and your family to enjoy all year round.
