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January 25, 2024
Habits

The best public places in Adelaide to exercise

We found walking groups, park runs, and dips in the ocean for those trying to stay loyal to your New Year’s resolutions or looking for a change of scenery.

  • Words: Kimberly Murray
  • Main picture: Ellie Everett

As January comes to an end, we want to help you stretch your New Year’s resolutions at least into February. So we’ve compiled some activities to help you kill two birds with one stone: be more active and save money. Our criteria were simple: activities on the list should be free, or cost you no more than $10.

Remarks

What’s your favourite public place to exercise? Let us know.

Whether you’re looking for a new ‘grammable spot for your hot girl walk, are keen to let out your inner child or want to meet like-minded people, these are a few of our favourite Adelaide options.


HEART FOUNDATION WALKING GROUPS

Caring for your heart is super important, and the Heart Foundation totally gets it. They’re all about helping you on your journey to a healthier lifestyle through their walking groups you can join in different areas. It’s not just about getting active, but also meeting other people who are all about keeping their hearts happy and healthy. So why not dust off your New Balance, double knot your laces and start your hot girl walk (it’s a state of mind, gender be damned). Find a walking group near you and let the fun begin, the Heart Foundation even put together a free walking plan to help you get started.


ST KILDA ADVENTURE PLAYGROUND 

Who said kids get to have all the fun? The St Kilda Adventure playground is a super spot to get active and have a blast at the same time, no matter your age. They have a wicked network of walking and jogging paths that wrap around the adventure park, taking you past their mighty Model Pirate Boat and innovative Fluker-Post Project. A CityMag favourite though is the satisfaction of making it up the stairs to their three-level castle and taking the slide back down. But be warned: as Summer heats up you’ll want to be well covered in leggings or pack a towel to sit on when going down the spiralling (and very, very hot metal) slides. If you’re up for some serious thrills, why not test your strength, agility and balance on their obstacles and zip line? The St Kilda Adventure Playground isn’t just a fun spot to stay active, but a great place to rally your mates or bring the family.

Release your inner child. This picture: City of Salisbury


ANSTEY HILL RECREATION PARK 

With creeks, ridgetops, historical landmarks and views across Adelaide, Anstey Hill is a stunning setting for your next fitness challenge. This is one to save for a cooler summer day, as they’re closed on days with a high risk of fire. Take advantage of the mid-20s forecast on its way after the current heat hurdle, slap on sunscreen, grab a hat and your emotional support water bottle to accompany you. About a 25-minute drive from the CBD, you can create your own adventure with their various walking, hiking and mountain bike trails for all levels of ability. On the leisurely stroll along Water Gully, you’ll hear kookaburras and spot different coloured funghi on your way. The intermediate Silver Mine Loop, passes old quarries and mine shafts dating back to 1853 – just watch out for spots where Anstey becomes antsy, with large ant mounds along the trail.  After you’ve worked up a sweat, grab a bite from a local eatery and head over to the peaceful picnic areas to refuel.


SALTY SIPS SUNRISE DIP

Salty Sips, or as it’s lovingly called, Salties, is a popular community event that’s totally free. It’s organised by the folks at Human.Kind and was started by two Adelaide locals, Lily Biggs and Nikita Trewartha, back in 2021. The seaside dip happens every Wednesday morning at 6:30, alternating between Glenelg and Henley Beach. You can join in on a chill half-hour yoga session beforehand, then go for a dip in the ocean. But it’s not just about the exercise or the early rising. It’s also a great opportunity to hang out with familiar faces or make some new friends over a cup of coffee and a discounted bite from some of the food vendors that are friends of Salties.

This picture: Ellie Everett


YOGA FOR ALL ABILITIES

People of all abilities are invited to join this laid-back 45-minute movement, yoga, and relaxation session. The Box Factory Community Centre on Regent St holds classes every Monday afternoon at 4 and all you need to bring is yourself, a water bottle and comfortable clothing. Mats and props will be provided. This one does come at a price, but – as promised – it’s no more than $10 per session to participate. With accessible entrances, toilets, lifts and assistance dog-friendly facilities, this class focuses on chair-based movement and yoga to improve and maintain aerobic levels, balance and flexibility.

Remarks

Looking for more run clubs near you? Here are a few of our faves. 


THE CHEEKY TROT

After a Christmas hiatus, the Cheeky Trot is back on Saturday mornings from February 3. A collaboration between east-side gym The Fit Space and Cheeky Grin Coffee, each week runners take off from Cheeky Grin, located at 74a Gage Street in Firle, for a three- to four-kilometre run around the neighbourhood. No matter your experience level, the main aim of the trot is to facilitate conversation and connection between the eager attendees. After the run comes the best part, a Cheeky coffee of course.

Trot along. This picture: supplied

Time for a well-deserved Cheeky coffee. This picture: supplied

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