Looking to shake up your next workout or simply try something new around the city? We’ve rounded up 10 out-of-the-box exercise options — suitable for all skill levels — that have proven integral to Richmonders’ wellness routines.
See what works out for you, and you might wind up finding your next favorite fitness outlet.
Dance
Turn Cardio Jam Studio | 3105 W. Moore St. | All fitness levels
This studio in Scott’s Addition offers group dance classes choreographed by personal trainers. Sessions range from easy-to-follow Zumba dances to more intensive, high-impact choreographies. Enroll for a two-week unlimited trial for $75. Bonus: Lifting + stretching group classes are also available.
Barre
City Barre | 1404 Belleville St. | Intermediate fitness level
Barre workouts are based on the stretches + movements of ballet, performed using a waist-high bar. City Barre curates fresh playlists and routines for each class — available daily, both in person and via livestream. Interested? Sign up for two weeks of unlimited classes for $69.
Climbing
Peak Experiences | 1375 Overbrook Rd., 11421 Polo Circle | All fitness levels
Chalk up + get vertical with 100+ lead ropes, auto belays, and bouldering areas across Peak’s two Richmond-area facilities. Explore climbing routes at your own pace, or sign up for one of their Learn the Ropes classes to scale the basics. Day passes cost $25, with additional fees for shoe and harness rentals. Bonus: Yoga and other fitness classes are also available.
Aerial
Soul Aerial and Performing Arts Center | 1632 Ownby Ln. | All fitness levels
Doubling as a performing arts venue, this program runs classes that make you feel as if you’re flying. Choose a workshop suiting your skill level, grab some silks + learn how aerial arts can take you to new heights. Bonus: Soul also offers youth classes in aerial arts and dance.
Get your crew together + put in some miles while jamming to hip-hop hits. | Photo via @hourcyclestudio
Cycling
Hour Cycle Studio | 715 E. 4th St. | All fitness levels
Turn up the music and turn down the lights for a 60-minute indoor studio ride. Hip-hop, reggae, Soca, and Afrobeat rhythms keep you pumped and energized while getting in a good sweat. New riders can drop in for a single session priced at $17 or enroll in a 3-class package for $45.
CrossFit
Shockoe Bottom Performance | 121 N. 18th St. | Advanced fitness level
This gym provides CrossFit training with certified personnel trained to help you achieve your next strength and fitness goals. Versatile, high-impact classes assist those with moderate lifting experience boost their workouts to the next level. Note: Drop-ins, starting at $20, are available only to previously experienced CrossFitters.
Boxing
Vintage Boxing Gym | 1202 N. Arthur Ashe Blvd. | All fitness levels
Put your dukes up and learn old-school boxing methods from in-house experts. Schedule a gym tour in advance, as only members have access to sparring sessions, the Recovery Room, and Boxing Yoga courses. Bonus: Youth and adult programs, as well as private lessons, are available for booking.
Martial Arts
Richmond Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and Self-Defense Academy | 725 W. Broad St. | All fitness levels
Try your hand at hand-to-hand combat. Whether you’re interested in self-protection tactics, active fun, or competitive training, there are plenty of classes to match your intentions. Contact the team to take a gym tour or register for a beginner’s Muay Thai or Jiu-Jitsu course.
Personal Training
Tequila & Deadlifts | 2614 W. Cary St. | All fitness levels
Richmond’s only all-personal training gym offers customized workout programs + small group classes for members. Trainers work one-on-one to help you maintain a healthy balance within your fitness life. Reach out to the team for a consultation.
Aquatics
RVASwim | 5050 Ridgedale Pkwy. | All fitness levels
No need to swim laps — there are 70+ shallow water, deep water, and poolside classes available for your H2O fix. Classes are free with a $16 adult day pass, and additional prices are available for youth and older adults. Want to keep up the routine? Sign up for a month-to-month membership contract.
Should we add more options? Let us know where you go to get active.
