Are you antsy?!  We all are, at this point. It is good news to see that COVID-19 case rates are starting to slow down and even decline in some regions of our country. With that said, for the foreseeable future, it is likely that we’ll continue to try to stay outdoors for many activities (and here in the Bay Area, we are fortunate that our winter temperatures allow for that!). Many people are bored of their usual routine right now, and in need of some inspiration for how to have some fun staying active, outside. Here are some local ideas that you might have forgotten about or never heard of, all free of charge. Solo or with friends, have fun getting the ants out of your pants!

1. Great Highway

Many people took advantage of Great Highway being closed for much of the past two years, and there was a lot of community wrangling over its re-opening. But what you might not realize is that on weekends, it is still blocked to traffic and hopping with exercisers of all ages!  This might be your time to dust off the old roller skates, take the doggo for an extra fun walk, or run alongside your tyke with training wheels. Note: most weekend days, the people watching makes the Great Highway a worthwhile destination, in and of itself.

2. Botanical Gardens

While they do need our membership money, what you might not know is that the SF Botanical Gardens are free to all, with proof of San Francisco residency: https://www.sfbg.org/visit.  Even for non-residents, the pricing is entirely reasonable given you gain access to a full day of outdoor exploration. Mid-January through March, the magnolias are in bloom; a great reason to organize a family trek that feels as fun as it is functional! Sidenote: if you are a member, outdoor yoga classes are free!

3. Hidden Steps

If we are writing about them, they’re not really a secret, but there is a sense of mystery around the tiled staircases in our city. The 16th Avenue staircase is certainly breathtaking, but personally, we prefer the Hidden Garden Steps (and yes, we are leaving it up to you to find them since they are hidden). If you walk up the road just a bit from the top of the stairs, keep climbing up. The views make all of the effort worth it, even on super windy days!

4. Sunset Boulevard

Have you ever noticed that Sunset Boulevard has exercise machines spaced along it, every few blocks? The next time you are stuck at a Sunset traffic light (which happens often, ahem), see if you can spot people using these set-ups. They are basic, but really hit the mark for no-frills outside activity that is free of charge. Try using one machine, running to the next, and so on. Best for those willing to work out with an audience.

5. Marina Green Fitness Court

Built by a partnership with the National Fitness Campaign in 2018, this outdoor court has been called “The World’s Best Outdoor Gym.” If that didn’t sell you, we don’t know what will. It has breathtaking views, and all you need for a bootcamp-style workout, except for chutzpah.  We leave that part up to you.

Now get out there and get working out!

Beacon Physical Therapy

At Beacon Physical Therapy, we support our patients in leading a healthy life and establishing a healthy lifestyle. And remember, if you are having an issue, make an appointment today. We’d love to meet you and get you back to doing what you love.