Wolfer’s Yoga in the Vines has become a signature summer exercise event in the Hamptons. (Photo courtesy of Wolfer Estate Vineyards)
They say that people who work out together stay together, and studies show that people who work out together are more likely to stick to their workouts. Gym and studio classes offer an easy way to get into group fitness and build community (and strength), whether you’re working out with 20 of your buddies or one-on-one with a trainer.
Still, since summer is most enjoyable when you can sit on a vineyard patio, dig your toes into the sand, or simply enjoy the warm temperatures you’ve been dreaming of all those freezing winters, being indoors might be the last place you want to be.
This summer, you can experience both on the East End. Fitness studios, vineyards and hotels are encouraging guests to step outside their usual indoor environments by offering outdoor fitness classes and training sessions. Work up a sweat with outdoor fitness offerings on the North Fork and South Fork.
Wolfer Estate Vineyards Yoga in the Vines, 3312 Montauk Highway, Sagaponack, 631-537-5106
Spend your weekend enjoying a unique fitness experience with Yoga in the Vines at Wölffer Estate Vineyard. This popular event is as much a staple as their famous Summer in a Bottle rosé, and runs Saturdays and Sundays from 8am to 11am until September 1st. Mornings start with a Pilates session, followed by yoga classes at 9am and 10.15am. All classes take place on the expansive grounds just behind the wine stand, with breathtaking vineyard views. Don’t miss out on the occasional pop-up class, such as ballet or dance, which is BYOMAW (bring your own mat and water – if you forget, they can be purchased on-site).
Baker House 1650, 181 Main Street, East Hampton, 631-324-4081
Guests and the public can develop their mind-body connection with outdoor yoga on Sundays from 8:30 to 9:30 a.m. Taught by Erica Dee Velazquez, nature, including centuries-old trees, provides a peaceful soundtrack. Classes are $35 per person, and students can bring their own mats or use mats at The Baker House 1650 for $5.
The Menhaden, 207 Front St., Greenport, 631-333-2777
With harbor views for days on end, this chic hotel offers a variety of bespoke activities, from oyster charters to outdoor yoga on Saturday and Sunday mornings. Instructors from North Fork Yoga Shala lead classes on the rooftop deck, allowing guests to take in as much fresh ocean air as they like. Cost is $25 per person.
Gurney’s Montauk Resort & Seawater Spa, 290 Old Montauk Highway, Montauk, 631-668-2345
Gurney’s Montauk’s Summer Fitness Series brings influencers and top fitness professionals to the luxury resort’s rooftop deck for advanced, unconventional workouts. The series runs from Memorial Day through Labor Day and will appeal to all levels, with live DJ yoga adding some cool jams to the mix and strength-training classes like Pilates that use light and bodyweight to target the abs and small muscle groups.
Underground Training, 53345 Main Road Unit 10-1, South Old Town, 631-463-1603
When Oriental native Katie Peters opened Underground Training in Southold in 2017, she literally ran a fitness studio out of her basement (her personal basement, that is). When the weather’s warm, students take classes with weights, kettlebells, and balls to get in shape and have fun. They leave feeling toned, strong, and breathless.
Venture Out Shelter Island Paddle Board and Kayak Rentals, Beachfront, 35 Shore Road, Shelter Island Heights, 631-317-7466
Book a small, private stand-up paddleboard yoga group class in a secluded TBA location around Shelter Island and test your sense of balance in a low-pressure environment. Classes usually take place on Saturdays and Sundays around 10am. Prefer to stay literally on land? Venture Out also offers drop-in classes for all levels on Saturdays and Sundays at 8am at Crescent Beach. Classes are led by Eternal Sunshine owner Jennifer Carroll, who is certified in yoga and SUP yoga and has led students in classes that focus on the mind-body-spirit connection.
Pridwin Hotel & Cottages, 81 Shore Road, Shelter Island, 631-749-0476
Kick off your shoes and stretch out at The Pridiwin’s morning yoga class. Classes take place poolside, and you’ll literally be doing sun salutations for an hour from 8 to 9 a.m. Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. Classes are included in your stay, but the public is open to attend for $25. Plus, Saturday afternoon is pickleball day. Hotel guests can participate in a pickleball clinic, tailored to all skill levels, from 1 to 3 p.m., included in your stay.
