More Than a Beach Body: How to Tap Into Rio's Amazing Fitness Culture
Walk along the shores of Ipanema or Copacabana at any time of day, and you'll feel it: a vibrant, kinetic energy. You’ll see people running, cycling, playing volleyball, and using the iconic outdoor gyms that dot the coastline. In Rio de Janeiro, fitness isn't a chore; it's a joyful, social part of the carioca lifestyle, celebrated under the open sky.
For the active traveler, there’s no better place to be. This isn't about getting a "beach body"—it's about connecting with the city's energetic spirit. Here is your guide to staying fit and active in Rio, the local way.
In Rio, the beach is the world's most beautiful gym.
The World's Most Beautiful Gym: Training on the Sand
Long before indoor gyms became the norm, Cariocas were using the beach as their personal fitness playground. Dotted along the coast are free public gyms where you can work out with one of the best views in the world.
Academia Publica Do Arpoador: Located on the rocks between Ipanema and Copacabana, this free public gym is a fantastic spot to train. The equipment is simple, but the atmosphere is pure Rio—a welcoming mix of locals and travelers all sharing the space and the incredible ocean view.
Simple equipment, world-class views. This is the essence of working out in Rio
Find Your Flow: Yoga & Wellness with a View
Rio’s wellness scene is as vibrant as its workout culture. You can find moments of peace and mindfulness all over the city, often for free.
Yoga with Mude: Keep an eye out for classes offered by Mude. This fantastic organization provides free yoga and other fitness classes in beautiful public spaces throughout the city, making wellness accessible to everyone.
Your Private Sanctuary: For those moments when you prefer a private session, we’ve got you covered. At OBO Casa, you’ll find a yoga mat ready for your use. There's nothing better than starting your day with a sun salutation on your private balcony, overlooking the neighborhood.
Start your day with a moment of peace and a beautiful view from whenever you want in the unending, beautiful city of Rio
A Lap of Luxury: Running the Lagoa
For runners, walkers, and cyclists, there is no place in Rio more iconic than the Lagoa Rodrigo de Freitas.
A Scenic Route: The 7.5 km (4.6 mile) path circling the lagoon offers breathtaking, postcard-perfect views of Christ the Redeemer and the surrounding mountains. It's a safe and popular spot, filled with active locals from sunrise to sunset.
Grab a Bike: Don't have your own bike? No problem. You can easily rent one from the city-wide Bike Itaú program (accessible through the Uber app) or get a more specialized rental from a local shop in Ipanema like Bike & Lazer.
Running by the beach in Rio is a truly unique experience—an opportunity you don't want to miss
Staying active in Rio is more than just a workout; it's a way to immerse yourself in the city's incredible culture. Rio’s vibrant fitness scene is waiting for you, and there’s no better place to dive in from than your own stylish sanctuary in Ipanema.
... and beginyour journey.
