5 Fun Ways to Stay Active in Austin, Texas, Without the Gym

Let’s be real, for many of us hitting up the gym just isn’t a good time — and considering the situation with COVID it may be better to avoid it altogether. BUT there are loads of things to do in Austin that are safe, keep you active; and most importantly, don’t feel like you’re working out.

Rock Climbing at Crux

6015 Dillard Cir #B, Austin, TX 78752

Rock climbing may sound a bit intimidating, but trust us, it’s so fun! You can choose to do bouldering, or if you’re ready to face some heights — rope climbing. As you challenge your friends to climb hard routes, you’ll find you’ve gotten a full body workout in without even noticing it.

Stand Up Paddle Boarding

1541 W Cesar Chavez St, Austin, TX 78703

Stand up paddle boarding, a favorite sport of many Austinites. You’ll find people out on the lake year round paddle boarding, and even doing yoga! It’s loads of fun to do with friends, especially when you’re all figuring out how to balance while not falling straight into the water. You can rent them from SUP ATX — and you’ll probably never need another kind of arm and back workout again.

Axe Throwing at Urban Axes

812 Airport Blvd, Austin, TX 78702

Initially, axe throwing may not sound that physically challenging; however, your shoulder and wrist muscles will 100% be sore. But who cares you have real axes to throw! It’s a fantastic way to let off some steam after a stressful week, not to mention you can bring your own beers to enjoy, and the knowledgeable staff will get you hitting bullseyes in no time.

Hiking and Biking Trails

Austin has what seems like a million places for hiking and biking. You’ll be able to enjoy all the nature that’s surprisingly close to the city and get some great cardio in. Places like the Greenbelt and Walnut Creek Park are excellent for some more intense hiking, or you can visit places like Mt Bonnell and the 360 Overlook for some great views. Alternatively, Austin has some fantastic trails running right through the city center perfect for hiking and biking right next to your favorite coffee shop.

Swimming at Barton Springs

2131 William Barton Dr, Austin, TX 78746

Barton Springs is famous for being the same temperature — a pleasant 70 degrees — year round. So while we may not recommend swimming there in the middle of winter, you absolutely could and many Austinites do! Regardless of when you go, swimming is an excellent full body workout that won’t feel like it — you’ll be having too much fun splashing around and jumping off the diving board trying to master that front flip.

Stay Active Austin Featured Image Credit: Crux Climbing Center Austin