Where to Sweat Off Those Summer Pounds
By Ryan Siss
Labor Day is definitely one of the most bittersweet holidays. Just as Memorial Day invites the beginning of summer, Labor Day announces its end. It’s that time of year where I regret - well, regret might be too strong of a word - let’s say “pay for” those numerous barbecues on the weekends, brewery and vineyard visits, the “calories-don’t-exist-for-the-next-week” vacations, etc.
It’s around this time that I force myself back into a healthy lifestyle; luckily we’re in the perfect place for it! Montclair has a bustling scene for those who want to be active - from biker-friendly back roads and streets to numerous parks and trails for walkers and/or joggers. This is great for early mornings (which I won’t do) and weekends, but as someone who works late hours and doesn’t want to fight the darkness, I’ve been investigating gyms and other fitness studios.
If you’re looking to get back in shape, take a look at a few options I’m including below based on my research. Keep in mind there are a fair amount of gyms and studios, and this is by no means an exhaustive list. (To the gyms and other fitness studios - if you’re not included feel free to reach out. I’m always interested in exploring a follow-up article.)
Guerrilla Fitness. Image courtesy of Guerrilla Fitness
Take a step into history. Guerrilla Fitness Montclair was the first gym in New Jersey to coach CrossFit classes. Located on Elm Street right off of Bloomfield Ave, Guerrilla Fitness boasts a close-knit community that supports each member with safe, fun, and effective workouts that offer new fitness challenges. Guerrilla is for athletes of all ages, including programs for Guerrilla Kids and Guerrilla Teens. Guerrilla offers a trial class for free.
D*FIT -
DFit Class. Image courtesy of D*Fit
Maybe you’ve gotten on/off the train at Walnut St. and seen some aggressive exercise routines - that would be the D*FIT community. Converted from an old mill, D*FIT is a boutique fitness studio that offers Personal + Group training as well as nutritional guidance. With more than 40 classes per week, trainers will push you to the point where you THINK you cannot go any further only for you to realize your true potential in a safe and secure environment.
AE Fitness Gym. Image courtesy of AE Fitness
AE Fitness is a small to a mid-size fitness center that has been servicing the community of Montclair for the past 20 years. AE specializes in month-to-month memberships and client-specific personal training. As a locally owned and operated small business, its mission is to provide its community of members and all those who visit with health, wellness, and peace of mind. AE offers a 5-day free trial to start.
Rowhouse. Image courtesy of Rowhouse
Looking for a very specific workout that will give you a full-body burn? Look no further than Rowhouse Montclair. Rowhouse combines aerobic endurance and muscular strength into every class, challenging you with combinations such as resistance training, rowing, and stretching. Rowhouse is a great workout for all ages and is low-impact since the exercises happen on a rowing machine. First-timers will learn the ropes while getting a great sweat at the same time.
Any other gyms, fitness centers, or boutiques you like in Montclair that you think the community should know about? Let us know!
