Harlem in Manhattan has undergone quite a reconstruction in the ten years since I’ve lived here. I started out in East Harlem, New York City, bounced up to Westchester and then moved into West Harlem. This is the only place I’ve lived as an adult and I have a tremendous amount of respect for my community. So, of course, when I decided to get fit for the new year, I looked for options close to home.
If you’re really lucky, you live in a co-op or condo with a built in gym. I don’t have that amenity so I set off on a search for fitness uptown! There are a variety of options from kettleball to belly dancing.
So you’ve got guests coming in to town or you’ve just moved in yourself and are thinking of getting fit? Here’s what I found:
New York Sports Club
NYSC is a part of the My Sports Clubs chains. If you’re traveling and belong to one of their partner gyms then this is a great option for you because New York Sports Club pretty much has Harlem on lock. One of the more expensive Uptown gyms, they offer classes, towel service, great customer service and more. Their three Harlem fitness locations are: (a) 1400 5th Avenue, (212) 722-1185; (b) 2311 Frederick Douglass Boulevard (212) 316-2500; and (c) 303 West 145th Street, (212) 234-0016.
Harlem Center for Healthy Living
HCHL is a great and economical entry into the Harlem fitness space. Owned by the religious New Song Community Corporation, this community org offers dance and Pilates classes as well as fitness counseling and advice on where to buy locally grown organic produce. Find HCHL at 163 Saint Nicholas Avenue, New York, NY 10026. Give them a ring at (212) 222-3256 for more information.
The Little Gym Of Harlem
First Lady Michelle Obama speaks often about the dangers of childhood obesity. Want to get your little ones moving? Then check out The Little Gym Of Harlem. If you’re just passing through town they will be happy to let the little people in your life join in on an existing class. Find The Little Gym of Harlem at 258 Saint Nicholas Avenue on the corner of 123rd Street, New York, NY 10027. To learn more, call (646) 684-4262.
YMCA
Back when I first moved into the neighborhood, the good old YMCA was the only place to go. Today the new and renovated center is still on and popping with classes and even free group personal training. Here’s where I learned how to salsa dance and burn calories at the same time. The Harlem Y is at 180 West 135th Street, New York, NY 10030. For a class schedule ring (212) 912-2100 or visit them online.
Harlem Kettlebells Personal Training
If you’re looking to take your fitness to another level then kettleball training may fit your needs. Staying at the new Aloft Hotel? No prob; they’ll come to you. Find them at 228 West 139th Street, New York, NY 10030. You can also call (917) 361-2535 or check out their site for more info.
Planet Fitness
The two Planet Fitness locations in Harlem are as different as night and day. The reviews on Yelp for the Lenox Avenue location are so scary that I can’t in good conscience send you there. instead, for a cheap, chic and efficient workout you’ll want to visit the newer location just steps from the world-famous Apollo Theater at 208 West 125th Street, New York, NY 10027. Call (212) 497-2644 for the scoop. They’ve got tanning boots and red laser skin beautifying machines if that’s your thing. I love this place!
Lucille Roberts
If you’re a woman looking to work out in a man-free environment, get a free Lucille Roberts guest pass to use any time. They claim that you can burn 800 calories in one dance class. Really? Sign me up! Lucille Roberts in Harlem is located at 505 West 125th Street, New York, NY 10027. Call them at (212) 222-2522.
Le Femme Suite
To get a sexy look in a sexy way, try pole dancing or belly dancing classes at Le Femme Suite. As your official lifestyle passionista, you know that this is my favorite option. Get that solar plexus and third chakra moving. I was able to find a discount on Groupon. Whoo hoo! I’ll let you know how it goes. Find them at 2364 7th Avenue between 138th St & 139th Streets, New York , NY 10030. Call (917) 507-9475 or visit them online.
Happy workouts!
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