6 free or cheap (and fun!) ways to get fit in Nashville

From biking to stand-up paddleboarding, we share our fave fitness picks.

Tired of going to the same ol’ gym and walking on the same squeaky treadmill? So are we! Routines can get boring, so we rounded up our favorite budget-friendly fitness activities here in Nashville. Switch it up, and enjoy!

Free

Hike the Warner Parks trail system: The hiking trail system at Edwin Warner Park and Percy Warner Park includes nine trails, ranging from 150 yards to 4.5 miles. Heads up, though: These trails are more hiking than walking so be prepared!

Explore Shelby Park on wheels: Bike-share program B-cycle helps you access miles of greenways, on-road bike lanes and shared-use bike routes. Bringing the family along? Pack a picnic and baseball gloves in a comfy backpack for a mid-ride refuel.

Cheap

Stand up and paddle: If you’re looking for a good workout in a mellow environment, paddleboarding might be right for you. Nashville Paddle Co. offers an introductory class for $40, with one-hour rentals $20 after.

Get a pass, get a class: At Centennial Sportsplex, a membership gets you access to the gym plus a variety of free classes including boot camp, yoga, Zumba and cycling. Rates range from a $7 day pass for ages 13–61 ($7 for most other user categories) to $540 for an annual membership.

Enjoy Tennessee’s rivers: MetroParks offers a guided excursion day trip. Rental includes a canoe or kayak, necessary equipment and a shuttle service back to your vehicle for $25.

Special Occasion

Register for a run: Running’s a lot more fun with friends and in costume. (We promise!) Nashville has a variety of options this fall including the Blacklight Run and the 5KColorFest color run.

Find your niche: Have you always wanted to try barre classes, acroyoga or TRX training? Now’s the time. Look for back-to-school specials at your local studio, which may offer discounts for longer-term commitments. Smaller fitness settings mean more instructor time, encouragement and camaraderie, which equals more success!