Top Outdoor Workout Spots In Los Angeles
Losing weight can be a constant struggle. It can be even more challenging when you think of taking the drive to go to the gym only to spend an hour on the treadmill. With so many outdoor activities in LA to choose from, we've come up with a list of the best places and activities for you to visit to have fun while working out and losing weight.
Runyon Canyon Hike
2000 N Fuller Ave
Los Angeles, CA 90046
(323) 666-5046
www.laparks.org
With sweeping and breathtaking views of the LA skyline and multiple hiking trails, Runyon Canyon is by far one of the most popular destinations for a workout. Angelenos and visitors from elsewhere flock to this mountain oasis for hikes that involve getting outside with fresh air while also getting a great workout in. With a variety of different routes to take along the way that vary from a steady climb to steep paths, Runyon Canyon offers everything you would want from a workout. Whether you want to take a slow walk to wind down from your day or on the weekend, take a fast walk or run up the trails to get in shape, you can take this workout at your own pace. The 160-acre park is right in the middle of the city, making it a convenient place to get some exercise in throughout your busy day. Aside from hiking, Runyon Canyon also offers a great dog park for your furry friend as well as free daily yoga classes with top instructors. Whatever path you take, don't forget your camera and some water. The views at the top are incredible!
Santa Monica Steps
Adelaide Drive
Santa Monica, CA 90402
www.facebook.com/santamonicastairs
Nestled in a quiet neighborhood of Santa Monica, Angelenos come to workout by walking and/or running stairs. The Santa Monica Steps (or Stairs), was once just a simple set of steps descending down Santa Monica canyon, but has since become one of the most popular destinations for those looking for a workout in the presence of the fresh Santa Monica Beach air. Free to the public and open 24/7, 365 days a year, the "steps" actually consist of two sets of stairs. Some prefer the wooden steps which are wider across and offer a straight shot up, while others prefer the concrete ones which form a narrower switchback type of route. Whichever one you choose, it makes for a great way to lose some weight while being out in the fresh air. It sure beats running on the treadmill inside!
If you don't want to head to Santa Monica, luckily for you, L.A. has other spots around town that serve the same purpose. Whether it's the Beachwood Canyon stairs, the Baldwin Hills / Culver City steps, or the Pacific Palisades - Castellammare scenic city stairwalks, each comes with their own great workout. Check out Secret Stairs of LA for more ideas.
San Vicente Running Median
San Vicente Blvd & Ocean Avenue
Santa Monica, CA 90402
Starting in Brentwood, the San Vicente Blvd. grass median divides up the traffic, provides a beautiful path of trees, while also offering a fantastic place to take a run down to the beach. The median which follows a path of 4 miles to the beach, is full of beautiful twisting coral trees and grass, and makes for a great spot to take a run. And, while runners often complain of the tree roots to keep an eye out for, they also boast about the median as a place that allows them to run off the pavement on soft grass. The path is slightly downhill from Brentwood to Santa Monica, so be prepared for a small uphill battle on the way back if you do a roundtrip workout. Water fountains can also be found along the way and if you decide to run on Sundays, you can take advantage of the Brentwood Farmers Market for a refreshment along the way or after your long run.
Outdoor Yoga
Runyon Canyon
2000 N Fuller Ave
Los Angeles, CA 90046
(323) 666-5046
www.laparks.org
Sure, its definitely possible to go to the thousands of yoga classes in LA. But, are they free? And are they offered outdoors in the fresh air? The one featured at Runyon Canyon is and it's a great way to get in a workout while enjoying yourself. On the grass, with the California sun shining down on you, enjoy free yoga classes at Runyon Canyon with top instructors. Offered three to five times daily, its a great way to lose weight, tone up and the best part about it is it won't feel like you've dragged yourself to the gym for a boring workout!
Los Liones Canyon
W Sunset Blvd & Los Liones Dr
Los Angeles, CA 90272
If you're looking for truly breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean while you get your workout in, look no further than Los Liones Canyon in Topanga State Park. While most Angelenos are busy heading to Hollywood for Runyon or Franklin Canyon, many overlook this incredible and beautiful mountainous terrain. While it can be a challenging and big climb to the halfway point of Parker Mesa Outlook, you will be pleasantly surprised and amazed at the beauty of the overhanging vegetation as you head towards the top. Whether you're a skilled hiker or not, the trek will be well worth it as you get to the top. Benches and sweeping views of the Santa Monica Bay and San Bernardino Mountains await you.
Related: Best Hiking Trails in Los Angeles
