Exercising outdoors is one way to pass the time during the coronavirus pandemic. For those who are trying to stay fit, these are some places to choose from for a healthy mix of fresh air and social distancing.
In the District, Meridian Hill Park along 16th street in Northwest is a tranquil setting with a view of the city skyline and a great spot to get in a good run.
Over on Theodore Roosevelt Island, get a good workout in and then take a stroll along one of the three walking trails.
In Montgomery County, all indoor Montgomery Park facilities are closed to the public, but outdoor areas of the parks remain open sunrise to sunset. Rock Creek Park is still a great option for a workout while practicing social distancing, but all park equipment, including tennis courts and playgrounds, remain closed.
In Virginia, the Mount Vernon Trail, stretching from Theodore Roosevelt Island to George Washington’s Mt. Vernon Estate is a great way to do cardio. It also connects to other trails and is 36 miles round trip.
The Arlington Calisthenics Park in Arlington Heights is another good area to get in some strength training.
The National Park service encourages all park visitors to follow guidance from the centers for Disease and Control and Prevention when working out outdoors. If you prefer to exercise inside, several D.C.-area gyms have started live streaming workouts, too.
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