Best Outdoor Gyms In London 2022 Guide
Now that summer 2022 is approaching, going indoors for a workout just does not have the same appeal when the sun is shining. So why not try out some of the best outdoor gyms in London that offer a range of classes in 2022.
Here at A Couple Things To Do, we are avid gym-goers and love to try out different gyms and classes worldwide. Half of us being based in London has given us plenty of chance to try out what the city offers.
The great thing about being in the capital is that there is an abundance of choice (sometimes too much choice!), meaning we can try a bit of everything! Robyn loves Spin classes and Pilates, whereas Henry likes Crossfit and HIT, so we feel as if we can offer a wide range of perspectives.
We have picked out the top 5 outdoor gyms in London we recommend you try out. They all offer something different, so there should be something for everyone. However, in my eyes, there is a clear winner, but you will have to let us know if you agree!
A Guide To The Best Outdoor Gyms In London, 2022
#1 Be Military Fit (BMF)
Be Military Fit takes the top spot for us! There are almost 100 locations in London and around 140 locations in the UK alone. They are the first military fitness outdoor training group led by former or serving members of the British Army.
BMF is unique because most classes are held outside in local parks, come rain or shine, as they are passionate about keeping their carbon footprint low. In addition, they run classes all year round in different weather conditions, which is excellent if an indoor gym environment is not for you.
One of BMF’s outdoor training locations
Just because BMF has a strong military background does not mean you need to be as well. BMF has tailored all of their workouts for all sorts of abilities to help to accommodate every level - whether you're looking for strength training or functional training while getting fresh air. They have colour coded these into Blue for beginners, Red for intermediate and green for advanced. They really encourage anyone to come along and try it out!
The selling point is that BMF is in several different locations, so you can always find one that works best for you. This is unlike other outdoor gyms as they are usually only found in one spot. In addition, they are eco-friendly as they use already existing outdoor space. Finally, they even support the military community by giving veterans jobs and helping them better their mental health before and after service.
Our nearest one is on Clapham common; however, our favourite spot is the one by the Battersea power station. It is a fantastic setup and undercover from the rain - it could be one of the best gyms in London 2022. This is a massive bonus if you are like Robyn and get cold quickly!
BeMilitaryFit Battersea
#2 Boxit Bootcamp
Boxit BootCamp is located on Clapham common and is an outdoor boxing fitness class. It incorporates cardio, strength and conditioning into a high-intensity interval training class that will get your heart pumping.
We love Boxit because it focuses on boxing while giving you an overall full-body workout. It is a common misconception that boxing is just about punching; it takes the strength of your whole body when throwing a punch! Therefore, you need a strong core, shoulders, and sculpted legs to help ensure you get the best technique.
Boxit is for all fitness levels and encourages everyone of all ages and capability levels - escape the spin studio, fitness studios and gym chains by joining one of their many bootcamps. They take time to teach you how to box and perfect your technique in a class of mixed men and women and all different levels.
#3 Yogarise
Robyn loves Yoga, and where is better to do this than on a high rise building overlooking London. That's where Yogarise gets its name from, as it is located on top of a high rise building in Peckham, Streatham and Covent Garden.
Their aim is to make yoga classes more accessible to the masses, and the pandemic forced them to think outside the box. So even though the pandemic was the reason for doing open-air Yoga, it worked out to be a fan favourite.
Now you can enjoy YogaYoga in 3 different locations in London this summer. They do have indoor studios if you prefer to take them inside in the winter and you don't have to enter luxury gyms to get your high-quality yoga class in.
Henry has spent a lot of time doing yoga in the past due to rugby injuries - sometimes it's good to stop doing free weights for a period or relax post-workout through a yoga class.
#4 Strong and Bendy
Strong and bendy, located in Hackney wick, is perfect for anyone who hates the conventional idea of going to the gym. Ran by twin sisters, they believe no one should be intimidated by the gym and that it should be a safe environment for all.
They are against radical transformation and really try to reinforce the idea of a healthy lifestyle rather than a quick fix. They offer friendly outdoor gym classes for all fitness levels focusing on how you feel rather than how you look.
Depending on your preference, they offer indoor and outdoor gym classes all year round. They have a wide range of classes, including cheerfit and Pop HIIT, led by excellent PTs and coaches.
#5 BUA FIT
Bua Fit offer a range of outdoor gym classes and online workouts in some of the most unique locations in London, 2022. They have classes located in front of Tower Bridge and the Shard.
They pride themselves on being no waste and no cost. Held at suitable times between work hours, Bua can literally hold a class from anywhere.
Bua will be perfect for you if you want to feel involved in something cool and completely different to a standard indoor gym class. We understand that not everyone will be able to get to these central locations, which is why it isn't taking a top place. However, it is still a fantastic option for an outdoor gym class in London.
Conclusion
These options are great outdoor gyms that offer a host of classes and experiences. So whether you want to get sweaty with the military or zen out on a rooftop, London's outdoor gyms have it to offer.
BMF took out the first spot as we believe it is the best outdoor gym that can cater for everyone. The other venues are great, but the fact that BMF has 140 locations and a unique experience of being trained by the military beats all the others to the post.
If you’re looking for advice on nutrition, why don’t you check our blog on porridge or training for a marathon!
Let us know if you try BMF or other outdoor gyms suggested in today's blog.
