Sponsored workouts are usually free and offer a good way to meet trainers in your neighborhood and try different workouts.
Did you know that some retailers in your community offer free workouts? It is worth checking with your local sporting good stores and some of the well known athletic apparel stores such as Nike, Lululemon and Lorna Jane.
Lululemon has stores in most US cities and many of them offer two free workouts per week including a weekday guided run and a weekend yoga class. The workouts are often led by some of the best trainers in the respective city.
We joined one of the Lululemon San Francisco run clubs this week and have shared our experience to inspire you to try it.
Group Demographics:
Good mix of people from the neighborhood between the ages 20 and 40+.
Options:
Two organized runs with run leaders including a 5k and 10k were offered. There was equal participation in both runs.
Experience:
The 5k runners added on to the planned route and stopped for calisthenics and yoga midway through the run. The 10k group reportedly enjoyed an amazing scenic route with views of SF landmarks.
Highlight:
Everyone in the group was friendly and inviting. The connections formed easily and the conversations flowed naturally.
Volunteer Opportunity:
We learned of an opportunity to train as a Running Buddy for Girls on the Run, a non-profit that inspires girls to be joyful, healthy and confident through experience based curriculum which creatively integrates running. More buddies are needed for an upcoming 5k race and based on the experience of one of our group runners, it is one of the most fun and rewarding ways to give back. Check the Girls on the Run website for all locations and more details.
Additional Perk:
Once a month, Lululemon treats runners to a beer at a local bar after the run. It is usually the first run of the month, but be sure to check with your local store for details.
Highly Recommended:
You will meet new friends and trainers in your neighborhood, get a good workout and experience your city in a new way. It is also a great way to incorporate a workout when you travel.
