Getting Fit in Markham, Ontario

When summer's bright light fades away and the days start to get shorter it is inevitable that staying fit becomes a little more challenging. 

To keep from hibernating this fall when the frost hits the ground, check out these great local fitness groups in the Markham and Unionville areas:

 

POUND FOR POUND (P4P) MMA:

If your existing workout is boring you to tears or you need to just (literally) kick it up a notch then this is the gym for you. Located in Greensborough, P4P offers co-ed Muay Thai, Traditional Boxing, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Strength and Conditioning, as well as Kettle Bell classes for the young and old. P4P is a safe & positive learning place for all personalities. Muay Thai or Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu can be a perfect way to get the kids motivated to be active and learning self-control. 

 

“MMA is a fun way to get fit and a great way to encourage kids to master the art of self-discipline,” says Justin Dela Cruz, spokesperson for P4P MMA, “MMA doesn’t isn’t just about exercise, it’s about building on life skills that will carry kids through to adulthood.”

 

Classes are always free to try and current or former fighters provide the individual attention and positive feedback that make learning easy.

 

MOKSHA YOGA MARKHAM:

Yoga is to exercise what kale is to food: a true superstar and should be done daily for mind, body and soul. Yoga provides benefits beyond looking great and getting fit. Research has shown that yoga can boost immunity, curb certain food cravings and even help you sleep better.  A big bonus is that you can work at your own pace and level. Offering both hot classes and not-heated yoga sessions – there is a class for everyone at this Markville location.

 

Mommas-to-be can benefit from the breathing exercises and stretching that prenatal yoga can provide and the bonding of Mommy-and-Me Yoga sessions post-birth. The meditative quality of a regular yoga practice can be invaluable for combating stress and staying healthy. All levels from newbies to yogis are made to feel welcome.

 

Moksha Yoga Markham offers a number of packages including unlimited access, monthly memberships and even a Couples All You Can Sweat Package that can be shared between two people.

 

CITY OF MARKHAM PROGRAMS:

One of the best parts of living in such a vibrant and diverse community such as Markham is the access to a whole host of family friendly city-run recreational and drop–in programs for a fraction of the cost.  Explore any activity from Aquatics to Zumba for all seasons and for all ages.

 

Check out the offerings in the quarterly Markham Life. Publication (sent in the mail or online) and sign up or pop into one of the Indoor Playgrounds (located in various Community Centres) for some inside active time.

 

The effortless online EZ-Reg system makes it easy to register the whole family for fitness fun and the support staff making getting fit and having fun a breeze.

 

PARKS & PATHWAYS:

If the idea of spending time in a gym makes you feel claustrophobic and you would rather breathe the fresh air – Markham is certainly the city for you. With gorgeous parks and pathways from Angus Glen to Wismer Commons there are no shortages of perfect places to play, walk, bike and hike in any Markham neighbourhood. The best part is that it’s all free and open anytime you want to go.

 

Some of my family's favourite places are: Milne Dam Park and Toogood Pond Park.

With all of these awesome choices there can be no excuses right?