11 Free Fitness Classes in New York City

James Fowler Physical TherapyHealth & Wellness, Stretches & Warm-UpsLeave a Comment

Updated June 2018!

Did you know that there are hundreds of free fitness classes all over New York? Catering to every intensity these free fitness classes are scattered throughout the day, making them easy to fit into a busy schedule.

Below is a cross section of the various free classes available, featuring a little something for everyone. So whether you are looking for an intense workout, or just want a place where you can relax and clear your mind we have got you covered.

General Fitness

Shape Up NYC

Class Description

Shape Up NYC is a free drop-in fitness initiative run by NYC Parks that conducts a variety of classes across all five boroughs. There is no registration required, simply show up at your class, have fun and get fit. To search for classes and locations that suit your needs visit their website.

Where:

All across New York City

When:

Times and days vary

Galaxy Fitness Session

Class Description

Get your body ready for summer with this free class hosted by Brandon Matthews (personal trainer and founder of His and Hers Boot Camp) and sponsored by Samsung. Learn how to live a healthy and balanced lifestyle, track your fitness and improve your workout. This 18+ class is free, but an RSVP is required and is based on a first come, first served system.

Where:

837 Washington Street

When:

Wednesday, June 6 at 6:00 pm

Yoga & Pilates Classes

Bryant Park Yoga

Class Description

This free outdoor yoga class, located in the picturesque Bryant Park, is a great way to relax, get fit and centre yourself this summer. Walk-ins are welcome, so drop by and perfect your downward facing dog under the trees. Mats are available to borrow for the first 1200 participants. If you would like to borrow a mat please arrive at least 30 minutes before the beginning of class. You may also bring your own mat if you desire.

Where:

Bryant Park

When:

Tuesdays at 10am and Thursdays at 6pm

Yoga to the People

Class Description

Yoga to the People aims to make Yoga available to everyone. This studio offers a Power Vinyase Flow class that is by donation only in both its East Village and Brooklyn Locations. The suggested donation is $10, but the studio stresses that those who can’t afford the donation are still welcome to participate. Each class is 60 minutes long unless otherwise specified.

Where:

East Village and Brooklyn

When:

Several times per day. Please visit their website for details.

Group Runs

Many shops around the city offer free group workout sessions, and many offer free group runs. Working out with a group helps keep you accountable, fosters camaraderie and offers a fun and fit way to be social. So what are you waiting for?

JackRabbit Group Runs

Class Description

JackRabbit offers free group runs all over New York City on almost every day of the week. There are too many events to list them all here, so check out their website for specific dates, times and locations. The varied times and locations make it easy to find a session that fits into your busy schedule.

So grab your running shoes, make some friends and get fit!

Where:

All over New York City

When:

Almost every day, times vary according to event.

Lululemon Run Club

Class Description

This free talk series is perfect for runners of all ages and ability levels. Each monthly session covers a new topic and features talks from specialists. This summer’s topics include proper stretching technique, strength training and recovery, and injury prevention. Tickets are available through Eventbrite.

Where:

Madison Avenue Lululemon

When:

The third Wednesday of every month (June 20, July 18 and August 15) at 7:30pm

High Intensity

Many shops around the city offer free group workout sessions, and many offer free group runs. Working out with a group helps keep you accountable, fosters camaraderie and offers a fun and fit way to be social. So what are you waiting for?

Bryant Park Boot Camp

Class Description

Join The Rise, a pop-up community driven fitness group, every Wednesday morning for an intense and invigorating workout. This class covers both cardio and strength training by rotating through a mix of burpees, planks, push-ups, mountain climbers and crunches to keep you always on your toes.

Visit their website for more details.

Where:

Bryant Park

When:

Wednesdays at 6:30am, rain or shine.

Low Intensity

Senior’s Fitness

Class Description

This fitness initiative, sponsored by the City Parks Initiative, is aimed at individuals aged 60 and older. Experience a variety of fun and free physical activities including tennis lessons, yoga and fitness walking. Each participating park location hosts two sessions per week. Registration is recommended ahead of time, but on-site registration is available should space permit.

For more information please email sports@cityparksfoundation.org or call (718) 760-6999.

Where:

Parks across Brooklyn, Manhattan, Bronx, Queens and Staten Island. Please see website for details.

When:

April 23 through June 16, 2018. Times vary based on activity. Please see website for details.

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