Shape Up NYC is the city's free group fitness programme, and this edition puts an hour of dance aerobics on a Hudson River pier in West Harlem. It is open to every age and fitness level, the instructors encourage the loudest outfit you own, and nobody is checking whether you can follow the choreography. If you want to start Saturday moving rather than eating, take this.
What to expect
A class on the open pier at West 125th Street mixing dance routines with aerobic work for an hour, led by a Shape Up NYC instructor. It runs first-come, first-served with no sign-up, and participants range widely in age and ability. Bring water; there is no shade on the pier.
Good to know
- Take the 1 to 125th Street and walk west to the waterfront.
- No registration is needed; it is free and first-come, first-served.
- Bring your own water and a towel; the pier is fully exposed.
- Colourful workout clothing is actively encouraged by the instructors.
- All fitness levels take part, so it is fine as a first class.
- Heavy rain cancels it, with a weather call posted a couple of hours ahead.
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Common questions
Do I need to sign up?
No. Shape Up NYC classes are free and open to everyone with no registration, on a first-come, first-served basis.
What fitness level is it for?
All of them. It is described as a free group fitness programme for New Yorkers of all ages and levels, fusing dance with aerobics.
What should I bring?
Water, a towel and clothes you can move in. The pier at West 125th Street is fully exposed, so sun protection helps too.
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