New Year, New You…right? The dawn of the New Year brings with it pressures of New Year’s Resolutions which typically include grand plans to lose weight, eat better, cut back on the drinking, and to overall be a better person. While it can all be terribly daunting, the most common resolution is to hit the gym more (or at all). Fortunately there are a number of fitness options on the Eastern Shore, from traditional gym memberships to yoga studios to Cross Fit centers. Whether you are new to the workout game or are simply looking to switch up your workout regiment, there’s a fitness-friendly option for you. Check out a few of our favorites:
12319 Ocean Gateway, Suite 203, Ocean City, MD
410-213-7000
Our favorite thing about West OC Fitness is definitely the fact that they are open 24-7. Many resort locals (particularly during the summer months) have erratic schedules. We are definitely not a 9-5 town, so having the option to head to the gym as early or as late as you like is ideal. What’s more, there are a host of classes available 7-days a week, ranging from Zumba to Pilates to spin. Or consider signing up for a personal trainer or a small group fitness class. WOC Fitness offers a number of different membership options, simply see a staff member at the front desk for information and get your New Year started right.
YogaVibez: A Hot Yoga Studio
12216 Ocean Gateway, Ocean City, MD
443-865-3109
yogavibezoc.com
Yoga is a relatively new trend on the Eastern Shore, but has been a popular form of exercise in metropolitan regions for years. The types and styles of yoga vary greatly, with a style for just about any age and body type. At YogaVibez, expect that same variety with classes that range from a mellower and gentler approach for mind-body relaxation and recovery to more amp-ed up versions that push you to your personal edge. Or opt for a mix of Pilates and yoga to target your core (we all know we need it after the holiday sugar rush).
CrossFit (multiple locations)
37395 Oyster House Road, Rehoboth Beach, DE
302-227-3636
crossfitrehoboth.com
If you haven’t heard of CrossFit than chances are you have been living under a rock (or boycotting social media). Lately it seems that our Facebook feeds are constantly clogged with proclamations of peoples’ obsessions with CrossFit. There are CrossFit centers popping up all over the Eastern Shore, and if you want to completely change your body, this is the way to go. The Mission at CrossFit is “to provide a supportive and welcoming community where athletes and everyday people are motivated and educated toward their greatest fitness potential.” Shortly stated, it’s a lifestyle overhaul that pushes you to your personal and physical limits while increasing your general fitness or performance. Be prepared to sweat!
Peninsula Pilates & Wellness
1496 Still Meadow Blvd. Suite B, Salisbury, MD
410-543-2006
www.peninsulapilates.net
PTA, CPI and Naturopath Practitioner Karen Hughes combines a unique blend of the Pilates Method with her own academic knowledge and many years in the fitness industry to promote positive life and body changes. Pilates classes are available in both mat form and with the reformer machine. There are also personalized individual programs on both the mat and the Pilates equipment. Or try the latest addition to the class schedule, the ballet barre class for strength and toning.
YMCA of Salisbury
604 S. Schumaker Drive, Salisbury, MD
443-944-0505
www.ymca.net
For years the YMCA has been promoting healthy living and physical activity through their facilities at a reasonable price. Group classes, healthy lifestyle seminars, personal wellness training, water activities, and sports and recreation are just a few of the ways that the YMCA can help you jump start your healthy, active lifestyle in the new year without completely breaking the bank. Perhaps our favorite part about a YMCA membership is swimming laps in the pool. The Eastern Shore is lacking in larger-style gyms with swimming pools, which is unfortunate considering what an excellent workout swimming laps is. To boot, the YMCA offers a number of kid-friendly classes to help instill the importance of a healthy, active lifestyle in your children from an early age.
9919 Stephen Decatur Highway, Teal Marsh Center, Suite 1, Ocean City, MD
410-213-9040
One of the biggest misconceptions about martial arts is that you have to already be in shape to learn. The reality is, most students turn to martial arts as a way to develop a healthy lifestyle while learning something interesting that they can do for the rest of their lives. No matter your age or skill level, Chesapeake Martial Arts has a class for you. Programs include the following: Introductory, Children’s, Adult, Cage Fitness, Personal Training, Weapons Class, Seminars and Before School Care Program. Beyond the physical benefits of martial arts training, you will also gain confidence and mental strength…and we could all use a little more of that in these cold winter months!
