By Amy Richards
Cleveland in the summer-there’s nothing quite like it! It’s important to take the time to enjoy the sunshine, birds, warm breezes, and the smell of fresh air and flowers while we have them! At the same time, staying fit is a priority for so many of us. So, why not combine fitness and summer? There are so many diverse opportunities for outdoor fitness in our area that may inspire you to get active and connect with others while soaking up the season. Jstyle discovered a few offerings that might just turn your summer into the best one yet! Put on your sunscreen, your shades, and your favorite workout gear and get moving!
Rooftop Yoga at The Van Aken District
The Van Aken District in Shaker Heights offers a free yoga class every Saturday morning from 9 to 10 a.m. until October. If the weather cooperates, the class takes place on the rooftop of the event center (20021 Farnsleigh Road; above Paloma restaurant), overlooking the shops and green space of the district. If it rains, the class moves inside.
Registration is not necessary; just drop in! No experience is needed, so beginners and longtime yoga lovers are all welcome. The instructor is Michelle Mastrangelo from Sanctuary Yoga. According to Lilliah Schmidt, Event Planner for The Van Aken District, “Mastrangelo usually brings a speaker and plays music with a relaxing vibe.” In addition, Schmidt says that, “although there isn’t an organized post-workout meetup, most attendees go down to the Market Hall and get a coffee from Rising Star and a pastry from On the Rise.”
For more information, follow Instructor Michelle Mastrangelo’s Instagram: @sanctuaryonthechagrin.
Yoga in the Park at Pinecrest
Free outdoor yoga classes are also offered at Pinecrest in Orange Village. Classes take place in their central green space, which they refer to as Central Park, every Wednesday at 7pm through August 27th. In case of rain, the class is moved indoors. Registration takes place at the event.
Unwind on the lawn with free all-levels yoga every Wednesday at 7pm in Pinecrest’s Central Park—through August 27, rain or shine. Submitted photo
According to Sarah Wynn Benton, who represents Pinecrest as part of BRAVE Public Relations, “Yoga in the Park is an all- levels yoga session led by our yoga instructors at Power Yoga Collective. It has a relaxing vibe and is fit for those who are experienced in yoga or have never tried it before.”
Benton adds, “What makes these events special is that we want the community to come together and have access to wellness activities and a way to meet or spend time with friends and family in a way that benefits your mind and body.”
For more information, visit Discoverpinecrest.com/events.
Just Train Summer Sweat Sesh
Participants power through a Saturday morning bootcamp as part of the Just Train Summer Sweat Sesh, led by trainer Jody Trostler, which takes place every Saturday at 9:15. Submitted photo
Looking for a high-energy outdoor workout? Trainer Jody Trostler, owner of Just Train Personal Training LLC, is offering Summer Sweat Sesh—a bodyweight bootcamp held Saturdays at 9:15 a.m. in locations like the Polo Fields and Orange Village Park. “A bodyweight bootcamp in a park setting is a high-energy, full-body workout that uses the natural environment—like benches, ropes, and open space—for resistance and functional training,” Trostler says. “Expect a mix of strength, cardio, and core exercises… It’s a fun and challenging way to build endurance, strength, and mobility—all outdoors with fresh air and plenty of variety. You will leave energized, with a sense of accomplishment and perhaps a few new friends.”
She adds, “Equipment, inspiration and motivating music are provided. Your spirit fuels the session—get ready to recharge and rise up!!”
Drop-in rate is $10 or $40 for a 5-class package. Classes run rain or shine (under shelter if needed). “I bring energy, experience, and a passion for wellness to every class,” says Trostler. “Come sweat, learn, and leave stronger—inside and out!”
Take a Hike
Want something lower impact but rich in local history? The Historic Gateway Neighborhood Corporation’s Take a Hike program offers 16 different 90-minute walking tours through landmark neighborhoods like Playhouse Square, Ohio City, Little Italy, and AsiaTown. “Participants, led by trained guides, will explore various landmark neighborhoods… In addition, two historical Clevelanders (portrayed by talented actors) will share their stories,” says Executive Director Eileen Cassidy.
More than a walk—Take a Hike turns Cleveland’s streets into a living museum with 90-minute guided tours through historic neighborhoods. Submitted photo
The Stroll Series, running through November, features 40–60 minute immersive tours that may include museums, churches, food tastings, and historical reenactments. “These specifically- curated tours tell more about heritage and culture,” says Cassidy. Options include Polish Heritage, Old Brooklyn History, Black Churches, Grand Department Stores, and more.
Self-guided GPS tours are also available year-round. Most programs are free, except those with food tastings or requiring crowd control.