New York City is one of the biggest tourist destinations in North America, if not the entire world. But what about those visiting the cities who wish to get off the beaten path, or those new resident in the city who wish to avoid the tourist hordes? The truth is, the city offers much for health and fitness oriented individuals, from workout venues to health spas and healthy eats.
Local Food
Chow down with the locals at Kate’s Joint in the East Village. It’s an all-vegetarian restaurant, with a number of options for vegans. If you find yourself in the Upper West Side, visit Café Blossom for fresh organic fare. For freshly squeezed juice and smoothies, Community Food and Juice is the place to be.
Indoor Fitness
Go for a swim at the Central Queens YMCA, whose Olympic size indoor swimming pool is kept at a warm temperature of 84 degrees Fahrenheit. For cardio and musculature, consider joining one of the city’s prestigious health clubs. The Sports Center at Chelsea Piers is a popular spot, and is a good place to meet locals with an interest in health and fitness.
The Brooklyn Bridge
Walk or bike across the Brooklyn Bridge, one of the city’s iconic architectural pieces. It’s a great way of getting your cardio in, and is a popular recreational pastime for local fitness freaks. Just take the subway to Brooklyn, get out and follow the Esplanade. Enjoy the stunning views of the Manhattan skyline along the way.
Spectator Sports
Lots of tourists come to town to see the Yankees play, but it’s mostly locals who line up to see the city’s minor league teams. Baseball fanatics will want to catch a home game of the Brooklyn Cyclones and/or the Staten Island Yankees. For fans of women’s basketball, try to catch the New York Liberty in action. New York also has its own soccer team, the New York Red Bulls.
Health Spas
Seeking a healthy means of rejuvenation and relaxation? Sweat out all those nasty toxins and be pampered like a queen at one of the city’s numerous health spas. The Silk Day Spa offers a full range of spa services, plus unusual perks such as acupuncture. Another popular spot among locals is the Tribeca Beauty Spa, located in an up market area of downtown Manhattan that is popular among celebrities.
References
- “New York”; Time Out; 2010
- “New York City”; Lonely Planet; 2008
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