Fitness District: Beltline

Fitness District is a place where we explore some of Calgary’s most notable neighbourhoods and share some of the best they have to offer in fitness and health. 

Travel south out of the downtown core and you will find Calgary’s Beltline community. Bordered by 14th Street SW and the Elbow River and stretching from 9th Avenue SW to 17th Avenue SW, the Beltline is one of Calgary’s most densely populated areas. YPs who call the Beltline home have a plethora of health and fitness options at their disposal…

The natural environment
Although the eastern edge of the Beltline borders on the Elbow River pathway system, the opportunity to power up stairs or hills is difficult in this neighbourhood as it is mostly flat. However, you can easily spend a few hours on foot discovering the eclectic mix of businesses that make up this neighbourhood. From the Design District along 11th avenue SW, to the retail, cafes, and restaurants that line 4th Street and 17th Avenue, you’ll want to spend some time getting to know this area of the city. There are also a few playgrounds located throughout the neighbourhood; why not give the monkey bars a whirl? You’ll be amazed at the workout you’ll give your core!

The gym
There are a number of fitness facilities located in the Beltline, but here are our faves: If you are looking for a challenging cardio and strength workout, check out the group fitness classes available morning, noon, and evening at Heavens Elevated Fitness. Craving a swim? Check out the historic Beltline Aquatic & Fitness Centre, where you can swim lanes or try Deep Water Workout fitness classes. For YPs looking to challenge their mind and body, be sure to check out Yoga Passage. With nine classes per day during the week, and six on the weekends (Friday – Sunday) in a variety of styles (e.g., ashtanga, vinyasa flow, restorative, ishta, hot), you’re practically guaranteed to find a class that suits your preferences and schedule.

The gear
For the utmost variety and quality in clothing and equipment, make your way to the corner of 8th Street and 10th Avenue SW, where you will find Mountain Equipment Co-op and Atmosphere literally across the street from each other. If cycling (leisure, commuting, road, or mountain) is more your style, be sure to check out The Bike Shop, Calgary’s only dealer ofRocky Mountain bicycles.

The fuel
Although it’s hard to pick our favourite out of the amazing food scene that exists in the Beltline, for healthy and filling fare to fuel your active lifestyle, be sure to give local vegetarian darling The Coup (as in coup d’etat) a try. Meat lovers will be hard-pressed to leave unsatisfied as there is no denying that every item on their menu is absolutely delicious. Bonus: organic and local ingredients are used whenever possible.   

The relaxation
Injuries that prevent YPs from maintaining their desired level of activity are a legitimate concern. The multidisciplinary team (read: sports chiropractors, physiotherapists, kinesiologists, massage therapists, personal trainers, and certified yoga and pilates instructors) at Calgary Sports Therapy offer specialized services to help you address concerns or injuries that may prevent you from staying active. Looking for something a bit more relaxing? Newbury Spa offers therapeutic and relaxation massages in a spa environment.

Photo courtesy Heavens Elevated Fitness