It's hard to visit San Francisco without stumbling over an organic vegetable or being invited to a yoga class. This is a city that cares as much about your health as you do. With the community's friendly nature and the city's encouraging atmosphere, there are plenty of opportunities for joining group fitness events as well as exploring your options alone. Biking in the park, walking the promenade at the waterfront, and mingling with local growers at the farmers markets are only the beginning.
Cycling
Bike riding in San Francisco can be an exhilarating exercise experience because of all the hills. If you're used to cycling on flat land, be prepared that biking over parts of San Francisco can be quite a workout even for the most experienced cyclist. First-time tourists might enjoy a bike ride through Golden Gate Park. However, if you're looking for a challenge, Filbert between Leavenworth and Hyde is one of the steepest streets with a 31.5 percent hill grade. If you're vacationing in San Francisco but didn't bring your bike, there are plenty of places you can rent one. Keep an eye on the traffic, especially on some of the city's more narrow one-way streets.
Rock Climbing
Embrace your inner-adventurist with a day of indoor rock climbing. It's a thrilling escape on a rainy or cool day. San Francisco's indoor climbing facilities offer first-time introductory classes and safety training for beginners, including children. Experienced climbers can jump right in and expect to be challenged by impressively tall walls, ever-changing courses and various types of climbing offered. Don't fret over bringing your gear, as you can rent everything you need on site.
Yoga
If you've always wanted to try a yoga class, San Francisco is the ideal place to sample the best of what's available. The city is rich with instructors in all types of yoga, for all levels. Many classes will offer a special rate for first-timers. If you're a seasoned pro aching for a class while on vacation, you'll have no trouble finding a class of your caliber. Most classes allow for drop-ins, so don't be shy about asking to join a session last minute. If you prefer to do your yoga outdoors, there is a free late-morning class at the Botanical Gardens on Saturdays.
Cooking Classes
Enrich your vegan or vegetarian lifestyle with one of San Francisco's unrivalled cooking classes. A one-time class on a Saturday afternoon can be a luxurious treat if you're only in town a few days. Learn to make a scrumptious new dish, and then eat it for supper. If your hotel accommodations include a kitchen, you can always pick up fresh ingredients at one of San Francisco's famous farmers markets to practice with later.
Farmers Markets
When you're in the mood for something sweet, nothing beats a piece of home-grown organic fruit from one of San Francisco's many farmers markets. Local growers tend to be friendly, forthright and full of helpful cooking tips. If you're visiting for the first time, the farmers market at Fisherman's Wharf is an exceptional place to start. Bring your walking shoes and get some sightseeing in while you're there.
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