If you want to set a few new fitness goals in the new year, you're not alone. January is a big month for new gym memberships. But did you know Birmingham boasts many fitness options outside your typical gym? You can spice up fitness goals with adult dance classes or try out America's fastest-growing sport, Pickleball. Tune into your zen with a tai chi class or get social with a 10-mile bike ride. Check out the list below to add a little fun and flare to your 2025 resolutions.
Try a fun class at Gradient Dance.
Up first is Gradient Dance. Run by professional dancers, Taylor and Joanna, Gradient's classes aim to reach the greater community and focus on a fun, healing experience. Not only will you find dance basics like ballet, jazz, and hip hop, but an array of unique offerings appeal to students ranging from teens to their late 60s. Joyful Joints is rooted in Gyrokinesis, a more accessible modality to create space along the spine. Try Swing Criollo for a more dynamic option or Meditative Movement for a healing, mind-body strengthening class. Gradient Dance is also proudly KultureCity certified to meet the needs of students with sensory processing sensitivities. You can start anytime and drop in any class starting mid-January, and they will be offering a sample series, too. Be sure to be on the lookout for their two-day intensive Exploration Lab in March. gradientdance.org
Explore Birmingham by bike.
Make new friends as you wind through Birmingham on a weekly bike ride. Trample is a free city-wide ride organized by local nonprofit Redemptive Cycles. The group ride meets behind the Redemptive shop each Thursday starting at 6 p.m. "The route changes weekly but covers approximately 10 miles and includes a brief stop along the way at a park or landmark," says Erica McGrath, events and volunteer manager. Don't let the 10 miles scare you! These rides are socially paced and fit for new and seasoned riders alike. redemptivecycles.com.
Enjoy a nature walk at Red Mountain Park.
Join a mindful walk at Red Mountain Park. Facilitator Ashley Clarke combines her passion for the outdoors with deep knowledge of yoga and meditation to curate an intentional hiking experience. Ashley says, "This experience is an invitation to slow down and be present through walking meditation, observation, and intentional connection to the more than the human world."
Up to 2 miles long, hikes are offered at a slow pace and are suitable for various skill levels. No special equipment is required for participation. These mindful nature walks will be offered on the first Sunday of the month, from January through May and September through December. Participants meet at 9 a.m. at the Frankfurt entrance of Red Mountain Park, 2011 Frankfurt Drive. Walks are free for Jefferson County Greenways members and $5 for non-members. Registration is required and can be easily done on the Red Mountain Park website, redmountainpark.org.
Jefferson County Greenways offers a variety of public programs throughout the year that allow participants to move, connect with, and discover the outdoors. Want to learn more about Jefferson County Greenways Programs at Red Mountain, Ruffner, and Turkey Creek Nature Preserve? Sign up for the monthly Jefferson County Greenways newsletter at redmountainpark.org.
Move in a chill way with Tai Chi.
Find your zen in a Tai Chi class. Seasoned Instructor Stephen Guesman has been involved with Tai Chi for over 30 years. Stephen states, "Physicians and therapists often prescribe Tai Chi as a no-impact exercise." His classes aim to improve strength and balance and incorporate breath work as a foundational aspect of the practice. While Stephen does offer private lessons, you can easily get started in one of his beginner or intermediate level group offerings. Weekly classes are available by drop-in or class pack at The Yoga Circle, in Birmingham's historic 5 Points South District. theyogacircle.net
Getting tapping at Alabama Ballet.
Alabama Ballet offers adult tap classes that will get your heart rate pumping! 16 is the minimum age, but you can expect to enjoy learning with fellow tappers well into their 70s. Classes are offered on Mondays at flexible times. You can fully commit to your new movement goals, as class registration is per semester—no drop-ins allowed. According to the website: "Whether you're a serious student or someone looking for a fun, different extracurricular activity, the state's premier professional ballet company provides quality training to all." There’s even an optional performance at the end of the dance season for those who want to show off their hard work. alabamaballet.org
Bring your baby to a Fit4Mom stroller stride.
Fit4Mom is a unique fitness group tailored to the needs of expecting and postpartum moms. They offer classes for any stage of motherhood and pride themselves on creating a safe, welcoming space for women to connect. The Stroller Strides, Stroller 360, and Stroller Barre classes are 60-minute workouts along with your baby. The instructors are well-versed in fitness safety for new moms, and sessions engage both your body and your baby. They offer mom-only classes, whole family classes, and even weekly storytime for the little ones.
Owner Kayley Ward says, "It is my dream for FIT4MOM Birmingham to continue being a welcoming and safe space for all moms to confidently pursue their fitness and wellness goals within a community of women cheering them on every step of the way!"
Express yourself through Flamenco dancing with Cathy del Sol.
Try the fiery Spanish Flamenco dance for a comprehensive physical workout that uniquely challenges your body. Local instructor Cathy del Sol has been teaching and performing Flamenco for over 25 years worldwide. According to Cathy, "Flamenco dance consists of three main elements: cante (singing), toque (guitar playing), and baile (dance)." Each of these elements creates a passionate dancing style known to improve posture, cardiovascular health, flexibility, and confidence. Beginner and intermediate classes are offered on Thursday evenings at the Dance Foundation, with plans to expand adult and kid offerings soon.
Pick up a pickleball paddle.
Pickleball has grown in popularity in recent years and is described as a mix of paddleboard, tennis, and badminton. The tennis-esque sport has much simpler rules, making it ideal for those looking for a fun, active, introductory game for all ages. Most civic recreation centers have courts, but membership is required. Birmingham's CityWalk and Crestwood Park both offer free-to-play courts. If you want to mix in more socializing or even find training, consider joining one of the many Pickleball clubs throughout the city. We recommend contacting Pickleball of Birmingham or Magic City Pickleball as a great place to start.
Trying something new is fun and engaging, and research suggests that it also supports brain health and memory. Whether you check out a new mindful activity or a dynamic dance class, you can be sure you're helping your body and mind in 2025.