October is one of the most lively times of the year to visit New York City. The weather is invigorating and perfect for competitive fitness activities, enjoying a nutritious local meal or taking a scenic stroll with loved ones. Despite the urban environment, NYC offers plenty of ways to work on your health and fitness before the winter moves in.
Fitness Programs
The NYC parks department offers free fitness programs for the public. "Shape Up New York" blends yoga, Pilates, aerobics and Zumba, while Walk NYC provides trained walking instructors to lead outings at 30 city parks.
Fort Tryon Park
The Cloisters, a branch of the Metropolitan Museum of Art in Manhattan, is in Fort Tryon Park, overlooking the Hudson River. Take a scenic 15-minute hike up the winding drive from the city streets to the museum and then tour the display of medieval art.
Cycling
Join a Critical Mass ride to tour NYC, meet local residents and make a statement. According to its founders, "Critical Mass is a monthly bicycle ride to celebrate cycling and to assert cyclists' right to the road." You can join rides in Brooklyn, Manhattan or Staten Island. In October, the ride gets spooky with a costume competition.
Farmer's Markets
Wherever you are in the city, you're bound to be near a weekend farmer's market. Pick up some freshly baked bread, sample some healthy locally canned preserves or pick out a pumpkin. You can ask the farmers about tips for healthy recipes or fall gardening. Search the website GrowNYC for a location near you, then pick up seasonal beets, broccoli, grapes, garlic or kohlrabi grown in urban and suburban farms near the city.
Jogging
Brooklyn's Prospect Park offers a loop more than 3 miles long with hills to challenge joggers. Explore the dirt and asphalt trails that crisscross the forested area and catch a glimpse of the swans that live in the park. Central Park offers a 6-mile loop around this world-famous park.
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