The Best Miami Neighborhoods for Breaking a Sweat
Even if you’re not in the honeymoon period of your fitness-centric New Year’s resolution, it’s always a good time to check out the edgy fitness studios around Miami. Miami is one of the top 25 fittest cities in the U.S. according to the ACSM American Fitness Index; the city was also named the fittest city in the country by TravelSupermarket.com. No matter your motivations for hitting the gym, you’re going to be in great company.
This year, resolve to tie up your laces, grab a water bottle, and venture to these neighborhoods for a workout worthy of all your fitness goals.
Wynwood
One of the country’s foremost neighborhoods for street art, Wynwood is a hub of creative activity with locals and tourists alike roaming its industrial streets to gawk at cutting-edge graffiti art or grab a pint of craft beer at one of its many breweries. After your workout, drop in at Panther Coffee for a home-grown pick me up and explore the colorful scene at the Wynwood Walls.
Studios to check out:
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Jetset Miami - The 50-minute workout combines weight training, cardio, and core-burning moves—think Pilates extreme.
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BodyTek - Break out the kettlebells and battle ropes at this high intensity interval training spot.
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Vixen Workout - Featured in the New York Times and Vogue, Vixen puts its devout following center stage for a “video vixen” hip-hop dance workout.
Design District
Known for its luxury shops, eye-catching architecture, and thought-provoking art installations, the Design District is a destination neighborhood close to Midtown, Wynwood, and Little Haiti. Warm up with a self-guided walking tour of the public art—like Buckminster Fuller’s Fly’s Eye Dome and 2x4’s Jungle—before heading to your workout.
Studios to check out:
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DBC Fitness - DBC stands for dumbells, barbells, and cables—no bulky machinery here.
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Rise Nation - A calorie-torching 30-minute group workout using a machine that simulates vertical climbing.
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Ahana Yoga - A neighborhood favorite, the serene studio hosts daily flow classes along with guided meditations.
Brickell
Full of glittering residential high-rises, swanky office spaces, and views of Biscayne Bay, Brickell is the heart of city life in Miami. Stock up on fitness gear at one of the luxury shops located in Brickell City Centre or grab a healthy post-workout meal at Dirt.
Studios to check out:
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Epic Hybrid Training - The high-intensity interval training (HIIT) workout incorporates climbing, monkey bars, and kettlebells.
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Title Boxing Club - A kickboxing-style class that’s a favorite with locals.
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RedBike - A Miami-based indoor cycling class that’s called a “party on a bike.”
Downtown Miami
Home to many of the city’s premier museums, late-night dance clubs, and the sprawling Bayfront Park, the action in Downtown Miami starts early and extends into the wee hours of the night. Cool down after your workout with a cold-pressed Super Juice at Jar & Fork.
Studios to check out:
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Exhale Downtown Miami - Part spa and part fitness studio, the muscle-shaking barre classes here are legendary.
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Society Fitness - The scenic Miami River is your backdrop during this HIIT workout.
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Era Fit - At this modern Downtown studio that’s been featured in Men’s Health and GQ, fitness and nutrition plans are customized for each client based on body type.
Coconut Grove
This funky, artsy enclave along Biscayne Bay is known just as much for its waterfront greenspaces as it is for its dog-friendly residents and locally owned restaurants. Coconut Grove also has noteworthy parks, like David T. Kennedy Park, which offers locals a free outdoor gym, a running path, and a beach volleyball court.
Studios to check out:
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Train 8Nine - Those in search of an intense sweat session using barbells and ropes can drop in anytime during open gym hours.
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Pilates One - One of the first Pilates studios in the city, this expansive space uses spring-loaded machines to tone and lengthen the body.
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Body Belly Baby - Moms and moms-to-be can take Pilates, yoga, massage, and CPR classes with a nurturing and knowledgeable staff.