Searching for an enjoyable way to get fit whilst discovering what Barcelona has to offer? Look no further than these tried and tested recommendations for fun outdoor fitness.
Running
The beautiful beachfront and numerous lush parks make Barcelona the ideal destination for any fitness enthusiast, from avid runners to keen first-timers. Thanks to the year-round sunshine and scarce rainy days, daily runs prove to be a treat for anyone looking to keep fit. Head to Barceloneta beach to enjoy a seafront run, lapping from the W hotel at one end, to Passeig Maritim at the other. However, those wishing to prolong their runs can continue along Passieg Maritim del Port Ólimpic and Passeig del Bogatell, soaking in even more of the impressive beachfront views. As well as this stunning scenic coastline route, the city boasts several lush parks, which prove to be essential for city runs; from Parc Ciutadella, to Mont Juïc and even Parc Güell, there is something for everyone.
Nike Run Club
Not keen or motivated enough to work out alone? Try one of the group workouts on offer; a personal favourite being Nike Run Club. From ‘Morning miles’ runs to break the routine, ‘Ready, Set, Go’ runs to run your first kilometre, and ‘H.I.T & Run’ sessions which combine training and circuits, to ‘Home run’, running in a group, and ‘Speed Run’, designed to increase your rhythm, there is a running and training plan to suit all levels. Once you’ve reserved your place online, all you have to do is show up at the meet point (outside the W hotel) and have fun experiencing personalised training from star athletes for free!
Rollerblading
As you may have noticed, the Spanish absolutely love their different ways of getting around the city. You’ll see people of all ages travelling around on wheels; from skateboards, longboards and rollerblades, to scooters and segways, there’s something for everyone. A fun and entertaining way to spend a day out whilst getting fit, rollerblading will leave you feeling energised and rejuvenated after all the exercise and ocean air. And if you don’t have your own pair, they can be rented at various locations throughout the city, especially along Barceloneta beach.
Urban Gorillas
Another group workout plan, Urban Gorillas offers personalised training, swimming sessions, group circuit training and group Gorilla runs throughout the city. Priding themselves on being a top-level fitness and boot camp group, they strive to offer a healthier lifestyle alongside outdoor training in an urban environment. By taking part in their activities you can discover new and cool places in the city and meet new like-minded people whilst training outdoor with friends. The group circuit training is the perfect way to increase overall fitness as it focuses on cardio, high intensity, agility, core development and inner strength, whilst the Gorilla run uses all kinds of urban objects to perform a variety of fitness exercises. On the website you can find the different memberships on offer, as well as their free trial. Urban gorilla offers a diverse and fun-filled way to work out in the open air, so grab your trainers and head on down!
Beach volleyball
Take advantage of the year-round sun, and long hot summer days by heading down to the beach and playing on one of the several volleyball pitches they have set up. Just grab a group of friends and ball; it’s simple, free and a fantastic sociable way to spice up a lazy beach day.
Beach workout gym
There are several open-air workout gyms dotted across the city, offering free fitness equipment to all. However, the most scenic and renowned one is located right in the centre of Barceloneta beach, providing a panoramic view of the glistening Mediterranean and sandy shores. At every hour of the day you can find locals working out here in the gleaming sunshine using the various apparatuses on offer. The gym is fully equipped, combining street workouts, calisthenics, parkour, freeletics, boot camp workouts and bodyweight training – there is something for everyone. Take advantage of the Spanish sunshine and head here for a breathtakingly picturesque workout at any fitness level.
Hiking
If hiking is an activity that takes your fancy, then why not discover the mountain ranges surrounding the city by exploring one of their hiking trails. Barcelona is situated in the Serra de Collserola, which separates the city from the Vallès plain, with its tallest peak being Mount Tibidabo. It is part of the Catalan Pre-coastal mountain range, and boasts stunning landscape and views for anyone willing to venture out. Further afield you’ll find Monserrat, the well-known site of the Benedictine abbey, Santa Maria de Montserrat, which makes an exceptional day trip out (a longer article about Montserrat can be found here). Hiking is a great way to exercise and increase fitness whilst soaking in stunning views of the natural Catalonian scenery.
Surfing
Whilst visiting a coastal city you are bound to stumble upon enthusiastic surfers, keen to explore the waters surrounding the metropolitan coastline. Surfing is a fun and unique way to get fit, whilst enjoying fantastic views from the ocean itself. The benefits of surfing are numerous, from increasing cardiovascular fitness and muscle strength, to providing you with a great way to spend time outdoors, enjoying the natural environment and relieving any stress or tension. If you are already a surfer then get stuck in, but if you are a beginner or in need of lessons, there are several surf schools dotted along Barceloneta beach, including Puka Surf and Escola Catalan de surf. Why not try something new today and have a lesson… who knows, you may end up loving it!
Cycling
Cycling is one of the easiest way to fit exercise into your daily routine because it is also a form of transport. It’s low impact, but still helps you lose weight, reduce stress and improve your overall fitness. Barcelona is a top cycling city, with the road layout designed to include various cycle routes. If you don’t own a bike there are bike rental shops located all throughout the city. Cycling along the beach is recommendable, as well as bike tours exploring the wonderful art and architecture this city has to offer.
I hope this guide helps you to explore the fun and enjoyable ways you can keep fit in the open-air in Barcelona. Go ahead and try them, but most importantly… have fun!
