Outdoor summer drop-in fitness classes to try this summer
Lea Esposito, of Manorville, with her daughter Ruby, is among a group of mothers taking part in the Stroller Strong Mamas exercise program started by fitness instructor Rachel Goodale. Credit: Newsday/John Paraskevas
Forget sweating it out at the gym. Take an outdoor workout class under the sun. Whether it be tai chi, cycling or yoga, fitness instructors are holding these classes all over Long Island and welcome drop-ins. Here are workouts you can do al fresco this season.
TAI CHI AT LONGHOUSE RESERVE
133 Hands Creek Rd., East Hampton
Learn the ancient martial art of tai chi at LongHouse Reserve in East Hampton, where classes are taught inside the gardens.
"We move around depending on what flowers are in bloom," says instructor Katherine Henderson. "Being outside is natural to the art form because tai chi is founded in nature. It really enhances the experience."
The hourlong class starts with a warm-up followed by some qigong martial arts, into a simple tai chi form concluding with a tai chi sword routine, substituted with wood and bamboo.
Don Lenzer moves through an introductory Tai Chi class held on the grounds of Longhouse Reserve. Credit: Elizabeth Sagarin
"This class is all about movement meditation," Henderson says. "It’s an excellent way to relax, slow down your breathing to get yourself focused on your body. Your mind and body become one."
Paul Hollander, of East Hampton, has been practicing tai chi for over 40 years and has participated in Henderson’s class.
"The strength in your legs increases as well as your balance," says Hollander. "You move slowly and you have to think a lot about what movement comes after the next."
LongHouse also provides yoga, waking meditations, sound and silence meditations, art classes and more.
When Thursdays and Saturdays at 10 a.m. May through September
Cost $30
More info 631-329-3568, longhouse.org
STROLLER STRONG MAMAS' PARENT AND ME FITNESS AT THE HEART OF IT
359 Main Rd., Aquebogue
Stroller Strong Mamas has made it possible to exercise with kids. The program offers a variety of parent and me classes at the new studio, The Heart of It.
"Kids are welcome to join in the exercises," says instructor/owner Rachel Goodale. "You are giving your body what it needs while setting an example for your children and bonding with them. We are a strong community of like-minded parents coming together. It is really powerful energy."
The Stroller Strong Mamas classes involve a series of cardio, body weight and strength exercises including deep core and interval training while moving around the many outdoor spaces at the new studio or working inside the studio. Kids who aren’t interested in joining in are welcome to bring their bikes and scooters to ride around or toys to play with.
Jackie Grossklaus of Riverhead and her daughter Leyana, workout together at Stroller Strong Mamas. Credit: Randee Daddona
"They're functional exercises for when you are lifting your kids off the floor and you can use the proper form with real strength," Goodale says. "We can easily modify or advance movements. I try to make every class welcoming for every level."
Erin Niemczyk, of Wading River, who is a mother of two, has been regularly taking SSM classes since 2022.
"I wanted to get healthier so I could be less tired when I’m playing with my kids and live a healthier lifestyle. These classes have helped me do that," Niemczyk says. "Plus, it gives them extra one-on-one time with me, which is something I can’t get enough of."
When Classes are offered 7 days a week
Cost $20
More info theheartofitli.com, theheartofitli@gmail.com
SPIN AT COMEBACK FITNESS
174 Daniels Hole Rd., East Hampton
Put on a pair of silent disco headphones and jump on a cycle as the Comeback 45 spin class gets rolling at Comeback Fitness outside the Clubhouse in East Hampton, where more than 15 classes are held each week.
Natalie Cohen Gould of Comeback Fitness leads an outdoor spin class in East Hampton.
"The first song or two, you are winding into your energy and preparing for the ride," co-founder/instructor Natalie Cohen Gould says. "You’ll gradually climb to the top of a hill through resistance and sprinting."
The 45-minute workout session is open to all fitness levels.
When Classes offered weekdays and weekends; closed Wednesdays
Cost $40
More info comebackcycle.com
LI STAND UP PADDLE BOARDING AT SUNSET HARBOR
90 Colonial Dr., East Patchogue
Get out on the water at Sunset Harbor by taking a 75-minute class with Long Island Stand Up Paddle Boarding. Equipped with a board, life vest and a paddle, beginners can learn how to approach the sport.
"You start by being taught how to properly paddle. It’s not like being in a kayak; it’s more like paddling a canoe," says owner Joe Grasso. "You have to switch hands — right hand on top, then left hand on top. The key is to get used to it like dribbling a basketball."
How to turn is another important lesson.
"Turning is not done by just paddling on one side, it’s paddling reverse left, reverse right so you can turn quickly instead of making a big loop," Grasso says. "We go over these logistics, so the participant has these skills down before they get going."
There are even tips given on how to properly stand up on the board, which is attached to the rider’s ankle.
When Daily 10:30 a.m., noon and 2:30 p.m., plus 6:30 p.m. on Mondays and Tuesdays
Cost $50
More info 631-326-7926, longisland-sup.com
David J. Criblez is a reporter for Newsday's exploreLI, covering entertainment-related events from local music to stand-up comedy to festivals.
