Lifestyle Workout Guide
The question I always ask myself whenever I’m traveling, and especially if I’m moving to another country, is… Am I really going to work out? I know for some of you reading, the answer is always a resounding yes, of course! However, for the rest of us, it’s debatable whether we should pack those tennis shoes, sports bras, and fitness clothes that we’ve bought but only worn a few times, I mean once.
Fitness and living a healthy lifestyle are important. I know that after a night of Mojitos, hookah, and all-night Reggaeton music in Panama City, it can be hard to find the motivation to work out. Today, I want to share with you some places to go for your various fitness needs because Panama offers a little bit of everything. Please note that this list is just to get you started, as there are always other places you may discover while living in Panama City, Panama.
Disclaimer: This is a Latin country so instructors may or may not speak English.
Cinta Costera
This is a place you can’t afford to miss! It’s a popular spot for both tourists and locals to walk, run, bike, skate, play basketball, volleyball, skateboard, and use the outdoor workout equipment. Additionally, you can indulge in street food, buy art and random toys for kids, and even spot raccoons. This 4.3-mile public recreation center is a great place to kick-start your workout adventure in Panama. However, I must admit that it can get crowded in the mornings and evenings, so if you prefer a less crowded environment and have a traditional work schedule, this may not be your ideal spot for daily workouts.
Parks
Parque Urraca
This smaller park is located across from Cinta Costera. It is very active and often filled with children. Many people visit this park as it’s conveniently situated off Ave. Balboa. It’s a great place for taking pictures, and in the evenings, it’s popular among basketball enthusiasts. The park also features a baseball field, playground equipment, and a dog park.
Due to its smaller size, this park tends to fill up quickly. While there aren’t many events held here, it’s still a pleasant place to visit and grab a chorizo from one of the many food vendors.
Parque Andres Bello
Situated in the heart of El Cangrejo, this park was a personal favorite of mine, especially during the first six months of living in Panama City, as I resided in the El Cangrejo neighborhood. I absolutely love this park! They offer Zumba classes, have two basketball courts, a playground, workout equipment, and a dog park. Unlike Bella Vista park, this park is less crowded and slightly bigger.
Price: Classes range from $3 to $5.
Parque Omar
Located in the beautiful San Francisco area, Parque Omar is the largest park in the city. It hosts daily fitness activities for the community, which cost between $3 and $5. The park offers a large walking loop, a bike lane for children, a playground, fruit vendors, a skating rink, a weights gym, a pool, a volleyball court, a baseball field, and even gazebo rentals. Parque Omar is truly a fantastic park suitable for everyone.
Price: Classes range from $3 to $5.
Parque Ciudad del Saber
This park is situated in the heart of Clayton and offers a wide range of athletic activities. It is also quite spacious and includes a playground, fruit vendors, a tennis court, a weights gym, a pool, a volleyball court, a baseball field, and gazebo rentals. Similar to Parque Omar, Parque Ciudad del Saber hosts a variety of events throughout the year.
Ancon Hill (Cerro Ancon)
If you’re looking for a picturesque spot to take a photo with the Panama Flag or enjoy a pleasant picnic, Ancon Hill is the place to go. The hill requires an uphill climb, taking about 45 minutes to 1 hour to reach the top. Once there, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views overlooking the city. The best part is that it’s free for everyone to access.
Metropolitan Park (Parque Natural Metropolitano)
Metropolitan Natural Park offers the opportunity to hike amidst wildlife. This hike takes approximately 1.5 hours to complete, and you’ll be treated to stunning views of the city. The park charges $2 for residents and $5 for visitors. It serves as a wildlife refuge, where you can spot turtles, coatis, pizotes, various birds, and if you’re lucky, sloths and more.
During my visits, I haven’t had the chance to spot any sloths, which is a bit disappointing, but nevertheless, the park is still worth exploring.
Gyms
Personally, I’m not much of a gym person, but I do enjoy attending gym classes.
Smart Fit
Smart Fit is a great option because it’s a chain gym with locations throughout Central and South America. If there’s a Smart Fit in the city you’re traveling to, you can easily access it. Smart Fit offers a variety of equipment and cycling classes. Check if there’s a Smart Fit near you in PTY.
Planet Fitness
I was pleasantly surprised to discover Planet Fitness in Panama City. So, if you’re already a member of Planet Fitness or Smart Fit, you can use your membership in Panama. It’s always nice when life is made easy.
Price: Membership costs $25 to $30 per month.
Power Club Gym
Power Club Gym offers a more intimate gym setting. While I haven’t seen any cycling classes at this gym, they provide excellent cross-fit equipment. Moreover, they have several locations throughout Panama.
Price: Membership is $75 per month.
Black Box
Located in San Francisco, Black Box is a boxing gym that also offers weekly fitness classes in circuit format. If you’re familiar with circuits, you know that it involves switching between different exercises for a set period of time. Of course, they also offer actual boxing activities. It’s a small and intimate gym, making it suitable for both adults and kids.
Price: $10 per class.
Studios
Yoga – Ancestral Comunidad
This yoga studio is situated in the Bella Vista Park area. They offer daily sessions and incorporate other practices, such as sound therapy, crystals, jewelry, and yogic teachings. If you enjoy this spiritual and physical discipline, it’s worth checking out.
Price: $18 for one class and $65 for a month.
Aerial Yoga/Fabrics – El Cuartos Rojo Panama
If you prefer aerial yoga or simply want to give it a try, this studio in Casco Viejo (the old city) is the place to go. It can be a bit tricky to find, so be sure to call or text once you’re nearby as it’s tucked behind one of those charming old oak doors. They offer daily sessions with fabrics or hoops, among other options. It’s a fun activity suitable for both kids and adults.
Price: $20 to $35 for one class or $70 to $125 for a month.
Aerial Yoga/Fabrics – Vole Danza Aerea
This studio is undeniably adorable, featuring a cute pink aerial yoga studio. They offer various apparatuses, including hoops, ropes, silk, and pole. If aesthetics matter to you, this studio is definitely a winner. It’s located in the Avenida Balboa area and offers daily sessions.
Price: Please contact the studio for pricing information.
Pilates – The Pilates Studio
The Pilates Studio has all the necessary Pilates machines and offers group classes as well. Though it may resemble a physical therapy clinic, it’s an effective place to work out. They have two locations in Marbella and San Francisco.
Price: $25 for one class, $85 for a month.
Cycling – Cycle House
Cycle House is a whooolle vibe that will leave you feeling the burn if cycling isn’t your typical activity. It’s a lot of fun, especially if you enjoy group exercise. The studio is located in the Marbella area and Costa del Este. So, hop on a bike with new or old friends and enjoy an hour of fitness and fun.
Price: $25 for one class, $80 for a month.
Whether you’re a digital nomad looking to maintain your workout routine while temporarily staying in Panama City, or if your job has brought you to Panama, or even if you’re just visiting for a short trip, there are plenty of options to help you build muscles, tone your abs, or simply take care of your mental health at the mentioned places. If you discover any other great workout spots in PTY, feel free to share them. Enjoy your fitness journey!
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AllThingsBiola 