6 ways to get active in Portland, OR

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Portland Frontrunners is a running club for LGBTQIA individuals and their friends. | Photo via @pdxfrontrunners

Rain or shine, Portlanders love to get a good sweat going — in fact, we ranked #9 in the ACSM American Fitness Index last year. So whether you’re staying strong on a resolution or looking to switch up your exercise routine, we have some fun ways to get active in Portland.

Caffeine + endorphins = happiness

From the baristas behind Deadstock Coffee Roasters (and the delicious LeBronald Palmer ), comes Deadstock Run Club . This welcoming group meets at least once a week for walks + runs, sometimes yoga, but always coffee.

Swing through the air

You can make dreams of joining the big top a reality by taking a class at Night Flight Aerial & Circus Arts . It offers lessons for every skill level on the trapeze, silks, ropes + lyra, not to mention its series on handstands or chair dancing.

Reach for your limits

Experts + novices can have a good time climbing at The Circuit Bouldering Gym or Movement Portland , and Broughton Bluff or Rocky Butte are ideal if you’re craving fresh air.

Hand strength level 100. | Photo via @thecircuitgym + @peytlandia

Pick up a paddle

It’s hard to argue pickleball’s growing popularity, so if you’re looking for a place to play (or just want to know the rules) try starting with PDX Pickleball Club . Stand-up paddleboarding is another great option to get outdoors , meet new people + work your core.

Locally-sourced sweat

If the traditional gym environment is your preference, these are great local options to pump some iron + build strength:

Bootcamps are an effective way to feel the burn. | Photo via @pdxstrength

Like no one’s watching

From ballet and jazz, to burlesque and swing, Portland has diverse dance class offerings:

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Ben grew up in the Rogue Valley, attended the University of Oregon’s School of Journalism, and has written for publications like 1859 Magazine and Portland Monthly. He enjoys hiking the PNW, football and futbol, wildlife photography, any manner of libation exploration, and of course writing for PDXtoday.
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