Documenting some of the group fitness I’ve participated in:
Philadelphia Women’s Rugby Club:
This is not for the faint of heart. Rugby is a tough sport. I played in my mid-20’s for Brandywine Women’s Rugby Club and had been reluctant to join in Philly because of the time committment, and really just the physicality of the sport. I participated in the 6 week spring pre-season training, and played in the first game of the spring 2010 season. It got me in great shape. At this point in my life, I really don’t want to play anymore. All the bruises kind of freaked me out. The team was very inviting, and players new to the sport are welcome to show up and just start practicing.
Philly Runners:
Running group that meets every Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday. I ran with them 3 Tuesdays in a row winter of 2009. My intention was always to go back when the weather warmed up, but then I started playing rugby, and then I kind of just forgot about it. They are a really nice group, and were warm and welcoming to newcomers. From what I can tell, the group is very active in volunteering at local running events. The group splits into smaller groups by pace. At 10:30 minute mile I was in the slow-poke group. The core group members are pretty serious (as in fast). This is a good place for someone who can already run, and is looking to make their running routine more social. If your just starting out you might have trouble keeping up with the running pace, but can still meet everyone at Bishop’s Collar afterwards.
eCity Interactive Run Club
This new running group started with a motley crew of programmers from one of Philadelphia’s Interactive Agencies. It’s the first time I’ve seen 5 programmers out running together. Our first run was for 2.75 miles at a relaxed 10:30 minute / mile pace. I believe a couple members are training for the Philly Half Marathon, so I’m interested in seeing how the group progresses.
Philly Power Yoga:
I love Philly Power Yoga! This yoga studio will whip you into shape. They put the Power in Power Yoga. After working out with Philly Power Yoga for a couple months, you will be stronger, leaner, more toned, and more flexible.
The Sporting Club at the Bellevue:
This is the gym I currently belong to. They have everything. I only joined after making a serious committment to myself, and my fitness that I would fully utilize it to make it worth the money. At $80 a month, I think it is worth every cent. Most of the other gyms around Philly will cost you between $45 – $60, so I find paying the extra money totally worth it. There is no reason for me to join a pool, yoga studio, pilates studio, or anything else. They have racquetball, squash, basketball, group rowing, a dedicated yoga studio, and some of the cities top instructors and personal trainers.