Outdoor workouts to try in the Twin Cities this summer

The arrival of summer weather in the Twin Cities makes it the perfect time to move your workout outdoors.

Why it matters: Getting exercise in nature is good for your body and your mind.

Yes, but: It's important to hydrate when sweating under the sun.

• And don't forget sunscreen — and, if needed, bug spray — to keep your workout safe and comfortable.

Here are a few classes around the metro:

🧘 Big River Yoga offers classes at Longfellow's Brackett Park on Wednesday afternoons and Sunday mornings, while Radiant Life yogis bring their mats to Lake of the Isles, between 27th and 28th streets, several days a week.

• Other options include the Lake Harriet Yoga Project and morning flow at Wayzata Beach.

🏋️‍♀️ Salad chain Crisp & Green hosts a range of free classes outside stores on weekends and Alchemy 365 is running no-cost pop-up sweat sessions across the city.

• Upcoming workout locations include Nicollet Island Pavilion, Lake Harriet and Target Station.

🏃Pick your pace at a Mill City Running group jog. The store offers multiple days and mileage options.

💃 Zumba fans can check out St. Paul's calendar of free summer fitness sessions.

• Cardio, yoga and stretching classes are also on the city's calendar.

👶 Have a little one? Try Blooma Yoga's little kid classes by Lake Nokomis.

🌽 Add "workout" to your shopping list with free yoga at the Mill City Farmers Market. Classes, led by instructors from a rotating list of local studios, run at 8:30 am and 10am through September.

• The Midtown Farmers Market also hosts free classes on Tuesday evenings.

Editor's note: This story was originally published in Aug. 2022 and updated June 2023.