While Sydney is in lockdown again, sigh, the city's indoor gyms and recreation centres are temporarily closed. But there's no need to disrupt your usual workout routine, because you can still break a sweat outdoors, as long as you do so with 10 people or less and maintain social distancing. Whether you're crazy about golf, want to practice your breaststroke or simply work on your muscle mass, here are Sydney’s best outdoor gyms and gorgeous places to exercise outside.
Centennial Park
One of the best places to exercise outdoors in Sydney, the 189 hectare Centennial Park has everything you could possibly need for a sweat-busting day out. Find your zen with a bit of downward dog or don your Lycra shorts and follow one of the stunning cycle paths. The parkland also boasts 120 fields for more than 35 sports, so you can play baseball, cricket, golf or even try your hand at horse riding.
You'll be spoilt for choice over at this sporty parkland.
Wylie's Baths
The public pools may be shut during lockdown - but that doesn't mean we can't enjoy a nice dip. Wylie's Baths, near Coogee Beach, is a strong choice for swimmers and snorkelers, as it boasts crystal clear waters and a schools of friendly fish. After a day treading water, you can head over to Coogee Pavilion for a takeaway of their classic pizzas, burgers and salads.
Fill your tum with quality slices after a lovely, long swim.
Maroubra
Even though there are no restrictions on surfing during lockdown, you may want to opt for one of the quieter beaches to avoid the crowds. While not as popular as Bondi and Manly, Maroubra still has stellar waves and beautiful white sands, making it a top spot for beginners and pro-surfers alike. You can also ride the tides with boogie and body boards or enjoy a sunset stroll down the shore.
Wave hello to this beauty of a beach.
Prince Alfred Park
If you’re looking to bulk up your biceps and work on your tan at the same time, swing by the Prince Alfred Park. Brand new fitness equipment has been peppered around the Surry Hills grounds, with lots of free-to-use stepping squares, benches and bars. Not just for gym buffs, the place also attracts athletes with tennis courts, basketball hoops and a fitness boot camp. Worked up an appetite? Chin Chin are still serving up their tasty East Asian-fusion plates and cocktails to collect.
Tuck into BBQ bites and quality stir fries after a hard day's workout.
Sydney's Coastal Walk
Fancy a bit of a ramble? Then set off on the famous Sydney Coastal Walk. While you may not be up for tackling the whole trek in one go (which could take over a week), you can take one of the especially scenic segments to do over one day. For Instagram-worthy horizons, a popular hike is the 12km journey from Manly to North Head.
Gorgeous places to exercise outside? This is just one of the many beaut landscapes you'll see on the walk.
Observatory Hill Outdoor Gym
Attracting fitness fanatics and novices alike, the Observatory Hill Outdoor Gym features all kinds of calisthenics equipment to help you bulk up. You'll find a dedicated pull-up station, as well as bars, benches and a flat green space for floorwork routines. Finish the evening with a Cantonese takeaway from Mr Wong just 15 minutes walk away in the CBD, which you can tuck into while admiring the city's skyline from the park's amazing viewpoint.
Observatory Hill is home to just one of Sydney's many outdoor gyms.
The Bay Run
Get your heart pumping on The Bay Run, a popular route that sees you speeding past magnificent mangroves and beautiful birdlife. The 7km loop around the harbour is frequented by dog walkers, roller skaters, cyclists and joggers all for the same reason... the absolutely gorge views. We highly recommend visiting in the evening if you can, as the sunset is simply astonishing. If you're not sure where to start, you can get to the King George Park section easily by public transport.
Go from couch potato to runner bean with one of the city's most picturesque trails.
Bondi Outdoor Gym
Not been able to pump your usual iron during lockdown? You can still swing by Bondi Outdoor Gym, the iconic calisthenics park in Sydney. Beefy bros can work their bodyweight by using pull-up bars, ab benches, double parallel bars and more, while cardio enthusiasts can brave a rigorous early morning PT class. For a post-workout carb load, grab some authentic Italian eats from Peppe's, which is still open for delivery and pick up.
Enjoy a plate of plant-based pasta after training your triceps.
Dudley Page Reserve
You can stop Googling 'outdoor gyms in parks near me' now, as you're about to discover your new fave place to workout. The Dudley Page Reserve in Dover Heights is a stunning spot to train, with sweeping vistas of the Harbour Bridge and cityscape. The fitness station has been designed for strength and cardio practice, so you'll find everything you'd need for a serious sesh. If you time your visit right, you'll also get a feast for the eyes as the sun descends behind the skyscrapers.
Feel the burn while catching some rays.
Christison Park
With five different fitness stations, you can engage in a circuit-style exercise trail that incorporates outdoor gym equipment for cardio and strength building. Unlike many others open-air gyms, Christison Park boasts kinetic equipment, such as elliptical machines, butterflies, rowing machines and cross trainers. Afterwards, you can head towards to coast for panoramic views of the South Pacific Ocean.
Spent one too many days in front of the TV? Get back into shape over in Christison park.
Excited for more sports centres to reopen? Us too. Check out the best pools to visit once restrictions are lifted here.
