Dayton area offers outdoor and indoor ways to stay active

Spring is the time we all want to get active again. After a winter spent keeping warm inside, most of us yearn for an opportunity to see the sun while getting our exercise. A change of habits or scenery can jump start your exercise routine and keep you active into the summer months.

The Dayton area has many outside exercise options that are hidden gems in the area. We’ve rounded up our top suggestions for activities that will shake off the winter doldrums and let you get outside. Plus, we’ve included a couple of indoor options so rain won’t spoil your active day.

The Riding Center at Carriage Hill MetroPark

Whether you’re a novice, an intermediate rider or a family looking for a fun afternoon, you’ll find it at Carriage Hill MetroPark Riding Center. The center has more than 20 horses that support its programs, including lessons, horse camps, weekend trail rides and pony rides for those under age 8. In addition to both indoor and outdoor arenas, the park has 7 miles of bridle trails.

Paddling

As temperatures warm up, the area’s waterways will become welcome places for outdoor activity. Five Rivers MetroParks manages 39 miles of waterways that offer suitable places for kayaking, canoeing and stand-up paddleboarding. Check the website to find the right site for your chosen activity and any limitations (such as day rotations for different activities) that may be in place.

Bicycle Trails

The Miami Valley is home to the country’s largest networks of paved bicycle trails, and more are being added all the time. Whether your intent is a short jaunt to enjoy the weather or a serious trek to work, the local bike trails have you covered. Consider:

• The Ohio to Erie Trail runs from the Ohio River in the south to Lake Erie in the north. In the Dayton area, the route follows the Little Miami Scenic Trail.

• The Dayton-Kettering Connector runs from Hempstead Station in Kettering to Riverscape MetroPark, making for an easy commute into work or to the MetroPark itself.

• The Iron Horse Trail meanders through Kettering, Centerville and Washington Township on a preserved railroad bed, making it an easy option for residents of south Dayton to enjoy nature.

Bark Park

If you have cabin fever, you can be sure Fido does too. With over 6 acres of off-leash opportunities and canine agility equipment, the Bark Park in Montgomery County invites you and your best friend to run and play in a safe, fenced-in area. Dogs must be licensed to use the park, and other policies apply.

Community Golf Course

If you are a golfer, you are probably more than ready to dust off those clubs and get back on the course. The “Gem of the Dayton public golf system” is Community Golf Course, located south of Dayton. This course features 36 holes and a number of water features and watery challenges. Warm up with some time at the driving range also located at the facility.

Disc Golf

Disc golf, or Frisbee golf, may be something you haven’t thought about since college. However, it has grown into a fun sport in its own right. Currently, there are more than 50 disc golf courses within a 25 mile radius of Dayton; if you feel like making a drive, there are over 160 within a 75 mile radius. The Dayton Disc Golf association has a robust, searchable database to help you find the course that’s right for you and your fellow players.

Indoor Fun

But what if the spring temperatures or weather make it difficult to get outside? Don’t let that keep you from exercising. Some unique options include:

• iFly Indoor Skydiving: Ever wonder what it is like to jump out of an airplane? Curious about the feeling of falling but don’t want to risk the real thing? Located in nearby Liberty Township is the only iFly establishment in Ohio. Offering indoor skydiving experiences, the site offers lessons and experiences ranging from the basics to more advanced maneuvers and tricks. Flyers must be age 3 and above.

• Urban Krag Climbing Center: Located in a revitalized church building in the Oregon District, this indoor climbing facility features over 10,000 square feet of vertical and inclined climbing surfaces. Nervous about your first climb? A belay class is generally required for beginners and will teach how to climb with a belaying partner safely. Climbers as young as 4 years old can participate with a parent.

Preparing for Spring Exercise

Spring brings with it a change in activities, often from indoor to outdoor. It is not uncommon to discover that muscles have tightened, flexibility is decreased or deconditioning has occurred in the winter months, even if you have been working out all winter. Exercise experts recommend you take a few extra steps before starting or restarting your spring activities.

1. Consult with your doctor if you are starting a new exercise plan or have any changes that may impact the safety of your workout.

2. Check your equipment. Take some time to inflate tires, inspect seals, check carabiners or any other parts that will impact your safety and enjoyment.

3. Check out the policies. Exercise venues may have changed hours, pet policies or age limits for children. Pets may require vaccinations, leashes, licenses or have age limits to use the area. Make sure you are prepared, and don’t assume this year will be exactly like last year.

4. Don’t forget to stretch. It may be tempting to leap back into your exercise routine, but a few minutes spent stretching can improve your agility and minimize next-day muscle soreness.