Where to Workout in Richmond, VA
Where does my workout journey even begin? I had to think of that today as I started to pen this highly requested article about where to workout in Richmond, VA. I believe we can start in high school where I was a sideline and competitive cheerleader. Can you believe I was actually the captain of my varsity cheerleading squad?! I also played soccer during the spring, but it was a lot of conditioning and very few wins! When I went to college in Richmond 2005, I realized quickly that a workout routine was going to be critical since I wasn’t playing sports year-round.
So, I headed to the campus gym. I discovered yoga, the elliptical, and the tiniest bit of weight training there. For years, that was pretty much it! After I graduated, I joined a gym, popped into classes here and there, and bumbled around with equipment on my own. Eventually, I made my way to a yoga studio. I was hooked both emotionally and physically. I have been a member at a few Richmond yoga studios over the years. I still love diversity and challenge when it comes to my workout routine, so I have explored many studios and offerings beyond yoga throughout the city.
What My Weekly Workout Routine Looks Like Now
My new goal is to make it to 2-3 group workout sessions in a studio, which are primarily strength, cardio, yoga, or pilates-based. I’ve learned to lean into the workouts that you find yourself easily showing up to. That will help you build consistency, which is the ultimate goal. I’ve also learned that you should let yourself change! Not all workouts will give you what you need emotionally and physically year after year. Keep exploring. When I need to refocus, I enlist the help of a personal trainer for a month or two to refocus and have someone really offer some new advice and guidance.
After 15+ years of calling RVA my home, below is a list of my favorite places to work out in Richmond. I hope they help you one your journey:
Fitness Studios to Checkout in Richmond, VA
2402 Jefferson Ave, Churchhill
I like this studio because there’s a wide variety of yoga, strength, pilates, and more available here. 3S Yoga offers the largest amount of classes and varied times throughout the day if your schedule is tricky. You can also catch classes on Youtube and at pop-ups around town.
1435 W Main St., The Fan
Here’s another one of my most frequented workout studios. This Richmond pilates studio offers traditional reformer-based classes and throws in some strength and cardio-based options when you want to amp it up or get some diversity.
115 N 20th St., Downtown
Richard Baker and his team of trainers offer one-on-one and small group fitness classes. I’ve worked with “Baker” a few times to refocus or prep for a vacation or event. He pays attention to your specific needs and designs efficient workouts that pack a lot of impact in a small amount of time.
7115-A Old Staples Mill Road, Henrico
I used to be a Zumba girl when I went to the gym. Dance-based workouts really uplift my mood, fulfill my need for cardio (which I hate), and have proven to make an impact. I got to know the Jazzercise founder in California and fell in love with the women behind this business, too.
714 North Sheppard St. (Cycle) + 127 West Brookland Park Blvd. (Fit)
I really enjoy the power and energy of a cycling class. It’s amazing how instructors can pack a full-body workout into an indoor cycling class. Boho offers a cycling, pilates, and strength training options at three studios around Richmond.
8002 Staples Mill Road, Henrico
I had the best time with this crew when I tried CrossFit for the first time. These workouts are challenging and for some become addicting. I always felt pushed and every time, I felt a little stronger and more proud of myself.
5000 Bakers Mill Lane, Suite 164 (Libbie Mill) + 12191 W Broad St., Suite A. (Short Pump)
If you have practiced Pilates on a reformer but love more intensity, this is a fun option. You’ll find yourself shaking and sweating every single class and feel stronger from the inside out with all of the core work.
1320 West Cary St, The Fan
As I write this, I realize how much I miss Maiden Motion! You’ll find a wide variety of dance-based classes, some of which use a trampoline. There are tons of full-body workout options here and lots of good energy.
1404 Belleville Street, Scotts Addition
I had fun at City Barre and got pretty hooked on the burn there. Check out this blog post about my experience. These barre classes are really focused on small movements that make a big impact. You can always adjust depending on your ability and your energy level that day.
2525 W. Cary Street
Talk about a sweat! You can’t leave this class without sweating. You can also release a lot of stress and tension n these classes. I always left feeling more confident and capable.
1601 Willow Lawn Dr. (Willow Lawn) + 2274 W. Broad Street (Short Pump)
I just tried this workout in December 2021 thanks to my partnership with Willow Lawn. It was less challenging than I thought, which was a good thing. I had only ever been on a row machine once, so I was intimidated. You get into a sort of trance with the rhythm of the class. You’ll hop off the machine a couple times each class for a target arm or ab workout, too!
I have to thank my new neighborhood for this one! While this is studio has “yoga” in the name, I love the Inferno Hot Pilates class. I believe Pilates is one of the best full-body workouts you can get and adding the extra heat makes it a cardio workout, too. A little extra sweat does more than help you burn extra calories, it helps you detox, increase your flexibility, and challenge yourself mentally.
Looking for More Workout Motivation?
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Workout Outfits to Love
