Staying active and maintaining a healthy lifestyle doesn’t have to break the bank. Omaha offers a variety of budget-friendly fitness activities that cater to all interests and fitness levels. Whether you prefer outdoor adventures or indoor workouts, there’s something for everyone. Here’s a roundup of some great ways to stay fit without spending a fortune.
*It’s always vital to remember to talk to your physician before starting any workout regimen.
Strike a Yoga Pose
Yoga is an excellent way to improve flexibility, strength, and balance. The City of Omaha Parks & Recreation Department offers yoga sessions year-round for different skill levels. These classes are held at various recreation centers, such as Common Ground in Elkhorn and A.V. Sorenson Community Center. For a unique experience, Lauritzen Gardens offers indoor yoga classes through March and moves outdoors when the weather warms up. Sessions cost $15 each, with discounts available for members.
Read Also: 9 Yoga Poses to Relieve Back Pain
Hit the Bike Path
Cycling enthusiasts can join the Omaha Pedalers Bicycle Club, which organizes weekly rides tailored to different fitness levels. The club is social and recreational, making it perfect for those who enjoy leisurely rides rather than competitive cycling. Membership fees are affordable at $20 annually for individuals or $26 for families.
Tee Off on the Links
Golf is a fantastic way to enjoy the outdoors and get some exercise. Omaha boasts eight municipal golf courses, many of which offer discounted rates for kids, students, and seniors. Courses like Westwood and Johnny Goodman provide affordable play options, with rates as low as $12 per round.
Read Also: Tips for Keeping Your Spine Safe While Golfing
Pick Up Pickleball
Pickleball is a fun, fast-paced game suitable for all ages. It’s played on a badminton-sized court with a paddle and a plastic wiffle ball. There are dedicated outdoor pickleball courts at Prairielane Park, Meadowlane Park, and Miller Park, while Montclair Community Center and Hanscom Indoor Tennis Center offer indoor courts for a small rental fee. League play is also available for those looking to compete.
Take a Wildlife Hike
Nature lovers can explore Fontenelle Forest in Bellevue for some low-impact cardio. The Great Marsh Trail is perfect for a brisk hike through wetlands teeming with aquatic life. The forest also offers winter bird walks, tree identification walks, and full moon hikes for a small additional fee for members. Annual memberships to Fontenelle Forest/Neale Woods are affordable at $50 for individuals and $70 for families.
Float Your Boat
Kayaking, canoeing, and paddle boating are excellent upper-body workouts that also build core strength. Local waters like The Platte and Elkhorn River provide beautiful settings for these activities. A single-day park pass is just $6, or you can opt for an annual pass for $31, giving access to all eight state parks in Nebraska. Mahoney State Park’s Owen Marina rents paddleboats for $10 per half-hour, and Platte River Rentals offers full-day kayak rentals for $25.
Wednesday Night Workouts at Midtown Crossing
Midtown Crossing hosts free Wednesday Night Workouts from May to September for those who enjoy group workouts. These sessions feature a variety of fitness classes, including Zumba, yoga, and boot camp, led by local instructors. It’s a fantastic way to stay motivated and meet others in the community who share your fitness goals.
Free Events at The RiverFront
The RiverFront in Omaha also offers a range of free fitness events, including yoga, tai chi, and high-intensity interval training (HIIT) classes. These sessions are held throughout the week and are open to all fitness levels. Check their event calendar for the latest schedule and join a class that suits your interests.
By taking advantage of these budget-friendly fitness activities, you can stay active and healthy without straining your wallet. Omaha’s diverse offerings ensure there’s something for everyone, whether you prefer solo workouts or group activities. So grab your gear and start exploring all the ways you can stay fit in Omaha!
Staying active in ways that align with your physical abilities and physician-led health journey can go a long way in helping you maintain flexibility, spine and back health, and overall wellbeing. If you have been referred to Nebraska Spine Hospital or you’re a former patient, please be sure to contact your nurse or doctor to find out what the best workout regimen is for you.
