Working out in the Beach Cities just got easier, and cheaper.
Dubbed “Free Fitness Weekends,” the community health initiative – organized by Beach Cities Health District (BCHD) – gives the public the opportunity to take free exercise classes at 25 participating gyms and fitness studios throughout the Beach Cities during the first weekend of every month. The initial weekend began Friday night and runs through this weekend.
Free Fitness Weekends was designed by BCHD to introduce people of all income and ability levels to a wide variety of fitness offerings, including yoga, Pilates, cycling, strength training, boot camp and more. Studios in Hermosa Beach, Manhattan Beach and Redondo Beach have joined the community initiative.
BCHD’s Chief Medical Officer Dr. Lisa Santora said the overarching goal is to create a healthier beach community by promoting exercise and supporting local businesses.
“Physical fitness is one of the cornerstones of a healthy life, but alarmingly, only one in three adults and one in four children currently get the recommended amount of daily physical activity,” said Dr. Santora. “We hope Free Fitness Weekends helps people connect with a fitness opportunity that they love and will stick with long-term. The response we’ve received has been overwhelmingly positive, and we want to thank all of the studios who have eagerly come aboard.”
One such local business is Bionic Body in Hermosa Beach. The popular studio is co-owned and operated by Kim Lyons, a former trainer on NBC’s hit television show the “Biggest Loser,” and her husband, Gunter Schlierkamp – a previous Mr. Universe.
“I’ve been a personal trainer for more than 17 years, and I think Free Fitness Weekends is a brilliant way to get people exercising,” said Lyons. “It’s a win-win for studios and the community. I can’t think of a better way to get fit, explore new studios, and learn from the most knowledgeable trainers in the Beach Cities.”
For complete information on Free Fitness Weekends, including class offerings and participating studios, visit beachcitiesgym.org/freefitness.
