When I first arrived in Lisbon, getting into a decent fitness routine was top of the agenda, but I’ll be honest, it took me a hot minute to find my groove – I blame the cheap wine and focus on making new friends – both equally valid excuses in my books!
I’m a regular gym goer and average runner so the options below are what I’ve found work for me – give them a go and share your recommendations too. I’m always down to try something new!
If you’re looking for something cheap and cheerful, Viva might be up your street. It’s definitely not fancy, and it can get busy, but they have locations across the city and offer classes, free weights and cardio machines.
It took me a few attempts to get into Amplify but now I can’t get enough. Their studio is Santos has a yoga/barre room, a spin studio and a bootcamp space. Their instructors are high energy and they offer some great package rates for those booking a fixed number of classes. I’m yet to try their other venues in Marque de Pombal and Avenida but they packs cover all three locations so its only a matter of time before I do.
I love this studio, especially for its Sunday evening dreamy flow session which winds me down perfectly ahead of a new week. It’s not just yoga, they have a Pilates reformer studio upstairs and also offer Barre and Cardio classes. Tucked away in Principe Real, there’s such a lovely atmosphere to this studio.
Over in Camp D’Ourique, this studio is a spin lovers dream. Loud music, motivating instructors, high energy classes. The music on Studiorise is on point, especially when it comes to their themed classes. Last time I went, I was so focused on the tunes, the time flew by.
There are a handful of personal trainers offering outdoor small group and individual sessions in Jardim Estrela. One we’ve both trained with is the wonderful Fabi. He offers 1:1 and small group circuits suitable for all levels. He pays close attention to form and technique and mixes up the exercises each session to keep the sessions interesting.