The importance of stretching
Visiting Door County brings to mind traditional ways to take in the gorgeous scenery: a drive through Peninsula State Park, a boat ride from Sister Bay Harbor, or a leisurely stroll through quiet Ephraim. True, being on vacation is about taking it easy, but Northern Door County offers plenty of other ways to experience the peninsula and get in a little sweat. Instead of driving, riding or strolling, read on for creative and fun outdoor workouts that combine the best of Door County with your best self.
If great music with a beat motivates you, try the dance workout Zumba, which combines steps from salsa, mambo, merengue, hip hop and others for a joyful workout. This morning class taught in the Sister Bay village hall or, weather permitting, on the Waterfront Park Main Stage looking over Sister Bay, will have you grooving all day.
Sister Bay also partners with the Door County YMCA to bring morning yoga classes to the Waterfront Park Main Stage during the summer months. Bring your own mat or borrow one and take an hour to connect with your body and the earth. Yoga is a great low-intensity way to greet the day.
For yogis who want to take their practice even closer to the water, Bay Shore Outfitters offers stand-up paddle board yoga right on the bay. This class, which meets on Sister Bay Beach, challenges participants to push their balance and core strength to new limits. Though no experience with either yoga or paddle boarding is necessary, participants should not be averse to getting wet.
Distance from Blacksmith Inn: Driveable in 12 minutes (8.9 miles)
Pre-registration required: Not required; check websites
Cost: Free – $35, depending on the class
For a faster-paced workout that puts you and maybe a friend in control of your speed, rent a bike and explore Peninsula State Park. The park’s bike trails are well-kept to support the many cyclists that use them throughout the season. The park has plenty of paved roads as well. Riding earlier in the day makes it more likely that you’ll have the trails to yourself. Edge of Park Rentals in Fish Creek has several different bike styles to suit your preference, and the owners and employees are great resources to learn about the best trails and sights to check out on your ride.
Distance from Blacksmith Inn: Driveable in 13 minutes (7.9 miles)
Pre-registration required: Not required but recommended
Cost: Rates vary based on bicycle and time
No matter which workout you choose, an outdoor sweat in Sister Bay or Peninsula Park is a positive way to start your vacation day. Not only do you glean physical benefits of movement, but the peaceful beauty of Green Bay is good for the soul. Wake up rested before your workout. Check the Blacksmith Inn’s availability for your Door County mini break.
