Free Summer Workouts!

SUMMER IN BOSTON isn’t just about Red Sox games and weekend getaways. It’s also when the city basically turns into one giant outdoor gym. Whether you live in Beacon Hill or Back Bay, there are tons of free ways to get moving, from yoga on the Common to strength training along the Charles. Feeling the heat? We’ve included virtual options too! Here’s a roundup of the best free fitness classes happening this summer, all close to home.

Boston Parks Summer Fitness Series

WHERE: City of Boston parks and virtually

WHEN: Now through August 30

The Boston Parks and Recreation Department and the Boston Public Health Commission (BPHC), sponsored by Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts, runs one of the city’s biggest and best fitness series. With over 25 free classes a week, both live and virtual, through August, there’s something for every age and fitness level. You’ll find everything from Zumba and strength training to yoga, dance, and tai chi. A highlight of the series is Sunset Yoga on the Common, held near Frog Pond on Thursdays at 6 p.m. There’s nothing like yoga under an open sky. This popular class is great for all levels and perfect for anyone wanting to stretch and reset before the weekend. Just bring your mat and settle in for an hour of flow in one of Boston’s most iconic spots. Full schedule at www.boston.gov/fitness.

River Fit on the Esplanade

WHERE: Near the Hatch Shell Charles River Esplanade

WHEN: July 14 through August 22

River Fit is a local favorite! Hosted by the Esplanade Association and the Boston Department of Conservation and Recreation, this series offers weekly classes like:

• Broadway Burn, a fun cardio workout inspired by musical theater moves. Mondays at 6 p.m.

• Forever Fit with Cindy, a strength and balance class for active aging. Tuesdays at 10:30 a.m.

• Zumba with Healthworks. Tuesdays at 6 p.m.

• Sunset Yoga. Thursdays at 6 p.m. (info at www.esplanade.org)

Rose Kennedy Greenway Fitness Series

WHERE: Various parks along the Greenway, including Rowes Wharf Lawn

WHEN: See schedule at www.rosekennedygreenway. org/fitness.

The Greenway Fitness Program presented by Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts offers 200-plus free classes for all body types and age groups. With self-defense, Zumba, HIIT, yoga, Pilates and more, classes come from over 22 partners. The series shines a light on women and BIPOC-owned wellness businesses, celebrating the diversity of Boston’s fitness community.

Seaport Sweat Series

WHERE: Seaport

WHEN: Now through September

Seaport Sweat, sponsored by Massachusetts General Brigham Health Plan, is back for its 10th season. Classes take place Monday through Thursday, with a must-try Saturday schedule, including Booty by Brabants and Kick It by Eliza. While it’s not in Back Bay or Beacon Hill, it’s worth the quick trip for anyone craving a fun, music-fueled workout by the water. More info at www.bostonseaport.xyz/seaport-sweat.

VIRTUAL OPTION:

Get Fit Over 50—The Total Body Workout

WHEN: Last Friday of every month

Designed for midlife and older adults, this monthly introductory class focuses on functional strength training, balance and mobility. All you need is a chair and a couple of hand weights. Led by Best of Boston Trainer Cindy Sullivan. For more information, visit www.cindysullivanfitness.com.

FIT SCENE:

Local Pop-Ups and Community Fitness

WHERE: Various locations across Boston

Fit Scene is your one-stop shop for all things fitness, designed to connect you with the best workouts, events and wellness experiences in the city. Whether you’re looking for a new studio, the latest pop-up workout or a community-driven fitness event, Fit Scene makes it easy to discover and stay in the know. Check them out on Instagram @fitscenebos.

With everything from waterfront workouts to yoga in the park, Boston is full of ways to get moving outdoors (or virtually) this summer. Whether you want to dance, stretch under the skyline or build strength with friends, there’s a free class near you.