Being home to the world-famous athletics program at the University of Florida, it’s no wonder fitness and sports facilities abound in Greater Gainesville to serve people of all ages, skill levels, and conditioning goals. Gyms and studios join forces with the UF Health Sports Performance Center to provide fitness, health assessments and training for individuals of every background and musculoskeletal need. Xceed Sports Performance prides itself on blending science with sport, focusing on the areas of speed, strength, stamina, power, elastic energy and mental preparedness to take you to the next level in whichever sport is your focus.
And, let’s not forget about recovery. With a number of sports massage facilities and saunas, including some with infrared technology, soothing those aching muscles after an intense workout has never been easier. Want to fight off fatigue and take your healing to the next level without the excruciatingly uncomfortable 20-minute ice bath? Look no further than cryotherapy. Three minutes at minus -230 degrees Fahrenheit delivers immediate relief from muscle pain, sprains, swelling and joint stiffness, as well as improvements to sleep quality and restlessness.
If you prefer group training to an individual focus, why not enjoy one of the Crossfit, Pilates, or Ayurveda Yoga studios? Whether you want a casual environment where new friends and camaraderie take center stage or a butt-kicking, heart pounding experience to test your limits with intense boot-camp like routines, Greater Gainesville has a group-centered fitness routine to expand both your network and your athletic potential. With over 19 martial arts studios and dojos, self-defense and graceful technique flourish in the disciplines of Judo, Karate, and Jiu Jitsu. Newer to the scene are studios and groups devoted to Capoeira, the Afro-Brazilian martial art that gracefully merges dance, acrobatics, and music. Initially developed by slaves to disguise their fight-practicing moves, Capoeira has a modern-day allure and beauty that truly makes this martial art stand apart from the pack. The holistic approach toward a healthier and more active lifestyle not only consists of physical wellbeing, but also harmonizing the mind, body and spirit. Gainesville’s APEX Yoga Pod Studios combines yoga practices and Pilates. Yoga practices utilize different flow states to each higher levels of awareness, while the Pilates discipline reinforces concentration. The result is a nice workout that empowers full-body control.
Speaking of dance, Greater Gainesville has a variety of studios, lessons, and classes tailored to different styles. From ballet to belly dancing, Irish step dance to Hip-Hop, the intimacy of the Tango to the group synchronicity of line dancing, expand your fitness horizons in a world that does not feel like exercise. If you prefer a non-talking partner to strengthen your core and warm your heart, there are a multitude of Equestrian centers to choose from. The joys of bonding with horses on a simple trot or causal ride are just as accessible as rigorous racing, jumping, and obstacle course training. If it’s solitude you’re after, no better place than heading out to the links to enjoy the beautiful fairways nestled aside Gainesville’s spectacular natural backdrops. With two famous Country Clubs and three lush courses open to the public, a day of golfing is arguably the most relaxing way to stay in shape and release that serotonin.
If you prefer a bit more adrenaline in your fitness routine, an indoor climbing gym, multiple archery ranges, and the Canopy Climbers, a tree climbing collective that will have you defying gravity and reaching aerial heights among the foliage, might be just the thing. From junior golf leagues to fast pitch softball, lacrosse and swimming to soccer and volleyball, youth athletics are well represented in Gainesville and will keep your kids busy after school and during the summer months with a variety of camps to choose from. There’s plenty for the adults as well with co-ed softball, swimming and tennis leagues, flag football, Frisbee golf tournaments, and even a chance to indulge your inner child with a round of kickball.