Not breaking news: Being physically active helps build healthy bones, joints and muscles and reduces the overall risk of almost every known disease. As our former Defense Secretary put it: “There are things we know, we know…” We all know we should exercise, but let’s face it: the weather is dreary, and our inspiration for working out is in hibernation. Yet it doesn’t have to be this way. Marin has a fine selection of indoor locations to facilitate muscle burn, metabolism rev and endorphin flow.
Sweat Equity
According to Matt Dixon, performance director at Endurance PTC in Mill Valley, “winter is the perfect time to head to the gym and work on building strength. Often ignored by athletes of all levels, a consistent strength program will pay dividends when you’re back training outside.” In addition to performance, he adds, “a stronger body is critical in preventing injuries.” Whether you are a hardcore athlete or fitness enthusiast, Dixon emphasizes concentrating on strength and foundation during these cool, soggy months.
Belly Up to the Barre
Thousands of women and a few men around the country are addicted to an intensive, nonimpact hourlong workout involving floor and ballet barre exercises. With a background in kinesiology and fitness, Jill Dailey, of Corte Madera’s Dailey Method, brought her own combination of Pilates, yoga and ballet barre exercises to Marin five years ago. A similar workout can be found at the Bar Method in Greenbrae. Each studio boasts a loyal following of superfit clients. “It’s like having my own personal trainer, with a little peer pressure added in,” says Jamie Macy, a Bar Method devotee, “and frankly it’s more convenient and costs a lot less.”
Outdoor Endorphins
Check out this hot holiday item for kids and grown-ups alike. Developed back in 1996 by Larkspur native Rob Fruechtenicht, the Diggler comes in variety of sizes and colors. These patented scooters come with off-road tires, brakes and an easy-to-stand-on skateboard deck. “Lots of ski resorts are using them as a recreation option during summer, a women’s fitness magazine recently did a story on them, but my favorite use is dogsledding,” says Fruechtenicht. Apparently, once you strap on the harness, something triggers Fido’s genetic pack hunter impulse and the dogs take off, with their masters in tow. Free delivery for all Marin residents, 707.775.2452.
Indoor workout options:
24/7 An energizing full-body exercise routine that combines core and cardio with strength and conditioning packed into a 30-minute time period. 383 Miller Ave (Mill Valley). 415.380.1200.
Bay Club Marin A 25-yard indoor swimming pool, five group exercise studios—including Pilates and yoga, cardiovascular strength training, luxurious locker rooms and more. 220 Corte Madera Town Center (Corte Madera). 415.945.3000.
Class 5 Climbing and Fitness Build strength and firm up muscle tone at this indoor climbing facility (the only one in Marin). 25-B Dodie St (San Rafael). 415.485.6931.
Endurance PTC With a foundation in the science of exercise and training, physiological testing is used to provide cyclists, runners, triathletes and general fitness enthusiasts with the information needed to achieve maximum results. 8 Madrona St (Mill Valley). 415.380.9629.
Mill Valley Health Club No initiation fee at this full-service health club and spa. 639 E. Blithedale Ave (Mill Valley). 415.380.8787.
The Bar Method An intensive one-hour class centered around a ballet barre that strengthens and tones the entire body. 208 Bon Air Center (Greenbrae). 415.461.5461.
The Dailey Method A unique combination of core strengthening, ballet barre and orthopedic exercises. 11 First St (Corte Madera). 415.927.1133.
Ultimate Fitness One-on-one slow- motion strength training, 20 minutes, only two times per week. 457 Miller Ave (Mill Valley). 415.380.8033.
Mimi Towle has been the editor of Marin Magazine for over a decade. She lived with her family in Sycamore Park and Strawberry and thoroughly enjoyed raising two daughters in the mayhem of Marin’s youth sports; soccer, swim, volleyball, ballet, hip hop, gymnastics and many many hours spent at Miwok Stables. Her community involvements include volunteering at her daughter’s schools, coaching soccer and volleyball (glorified snack mom), being on the board of both Richardson Bay Audubon Center. Currently residing on a floating home in Sausalito, she enjoys all water activity, including learning how to steer a 6-person canoe for the Tamalpais Outrigger Canoe Club. Born and raised in Hawaii, her fondness for the islands has on occasion made its way into the pages of the magazine.
