8 Unique Exercise Opportunities in Oxford Without Stepping in a Regular Gym

For a small town, Oxford is inundated with workout spaces.

Mississippi may be the most obese state in the United States, and, let’s be honest – the fried chicken at Ajax is too good to pass up – but Oxford is thriving in its recent boost of exercise programs throughout town.

The newest, hottest workout programs have taken over the new shopping centers and earned a spot on The Square, and the scenic outdoors holds a few hidden gems that provide a more exciting workout than simply running alongside the road passing Kroger.

While Campus Recreation at the University has some fantastic opportunities on and off campus, and gyms such as the YMCA and Snap Fitness have a wide range of equipment, you don’t have to step foot into a regular gym in order to get serious about your health and fitness in Oxford. Many students prefer the structure of a specific program or the wide open spaces at their favorite outdoor exercise sanctuary. And, let’s get real – not everybody is cut out for CrossFit.

Check out these eight unique local fitness opportunities that Ole Miss students are loving. You just might find your newest summer pastime.

1. Southern Star Yoga:

Perhaps the most traditional yoga experience in Oxford, Southern Star Yoga is located on North Lamar Blvd next to Snackbar. Take on the challenge of an Ashtanga class, an advanced series of postures designed to follow in a specific sequence, or start in the Fundamentals class to learn some basic poses. Drop in classes are $15, and the most loyal of yogis can even purchase a yearlong unlimited package.

University of Mississippi senior Aubrey Reid said, “I love the positive energy and unique practices of all the instructors. Each class is different and they always encourage you to go at your own pace so you don’t feel pressured to measure up to anyone else. Jeff is really great about that. His hot yoga class is my favorite!”

Tip: Check out the Power Lunch Yoga class in the middle of your day. Give yourself a boost by refocusing your energy and breaking a sweat to get through that groggy afternoon!

For more information, visit http://southernstaryoga.com.

2. PureRyde:

It’s interesting to note that PureRyde currently only holds five locations in the United States – and Oxford is one of them. Find it on The Square near Pita Pit. This spin class isn’t your typical spin class. Start by clipping your unique PureRyde shoes, at no additional cost to the class, to your moving bike. As your high-energy, helpful instructor leads the class, you’ll take your spin bike from side to side on what seems like a rollercoaster. The room is dark, and the music is loud. Who knew you could get killer abs while pretending you’re on Disney’s Space Mountain?

University of Mississippi senior Kaitlin Feaster said, “I really wanted to become a PureRyde instructor because I really liked the idea of pushing myself and helping others do the same by encouraging them and giving them a space to clear their minds. In college, it can be hard to get away from all the stress, but PureRyde gives people a place to just ride and not think about anything outside that room. I am also a pretty competitive person, and I knew that if I set the goal of becoming an instructor, it would push me to go every day and not give up on days when I felt tired or lazy!”

Tip: PureRyde isn’t just a spin program; they offer pilates classes, as well. Their unique practice, which they call +Pilates, is designed to keep you sweating and work just about every muscle in your body. Give it a go!

For more information, visit http://www.pureryde.com.

3. Pure Barre:

Located on The Square atop High Point, Pure Barre is a 55-minute, low-impact class that targets the tough-to-tackle areas of a woman’s body: hips, thighs, seat, abdominals, and arms. Using not only the barre but a variety of props, the workout will help you get fit all while your instructor helps you meditate to clear your mind.

University of Mississippi senior Sofia Stuart said, “I love Pure Barre because I am challenged, motivated, and focused on my mind and body. The moment I step into the studio I have a positive mind. It is my time to zen out for 55 minutes. The community at Pure Barre Oxford is a group of authentic individuals who embody kindness, motivation, and friendship every day.”

Tip:The mystical “thigh gap” may not be unattainable, after all. Check out one of Pure Barre’s specialty classes, “Intensive: Bye Bye Inner Thighs,” to sculpt where you struggle.

For more information, visit http://www.purebarre.com.

4. Lamar Park:

Located on College Hill Road, Lamar Park is a space for college students to run along the trails, families to bring out their strollers from the surrounding neighborhood, and pet lovers to take their dogs for a walk. Run along Lake Patsy at sunset for a beautiful, relaxing view, and choose a different path every time, if you wish to mix it up.

University of Mississippi senior Cameron Rich said, “I love to go to Lamar Park because it’s safe. I could go at almost sundown and I never felt that I was in any danger. There are different running trails, so I could make my run longer or shorter depending on how I felt that day. It’s also beautiful; there are the lake and the neighborhood surrounding it. It’s one of my favorite places to decompress during the week.”

Tip: Lamar Park is located across the street from Living Foods Organic Cafe and Market. Finish off your run by stopping in for a fresh juice for the perfect post-workout fuel!

For more information, visit http://www.oxfordms.net/lamar-park.

5. Oxford Fitness Kickboxing:

Channel your inner Hilary Swank with perhaps the most intense workout in Oxford. Talk about feeling like a million dollars. Oxford Fitness Kickboxing is located on Jackson Avenue near the iHop, but after this sweat-pouring workout, you’ll opt to skip on the pancakes. This is the place to go if you’re looking to tone up, release stress, and achieve your goals.

University of Mississippi senior Abbey Steed said, “It’s a great workout. It makes me sweat and feel good, and I leave feeling like a badass. It’s an excellent atmosphere with friendly instructors who always make me feel comfortable and keep me on my toes the entire time!”

Tip: Never tried Oxford Fitness Kickboxing? Your first week is FREE! No loss, all gain.

For more information, visit http://www.oxfordfitnesskickboxing.com.

6. Orangetheory:

Orangetheory is the place to go to maximize your absolute potential with a customized session in a high-pressure setting. Their goal is to help you get in the “Orange Zone” by stimulating Excess Post-Exercise Oxygen Consumption: what they call the EPOC. Sounds pretty legit! Drive over to the new shopping center on Jackson Avenue to check it out.

University of Mississippi junior Kelly Major said, “What I love most about Orangetheory is that I have a trainer and a class to motivate me and I always burn over 500 calories in 60 minutes.”

Tip: You can win $2,500 in cash and transform your body by joining one of Orangetheory’s Ultimate Weight Loss Challenges. WHOA.

For more information, visit http://www.orangetheoryfitness.com.

7. Whirlpool Trails:

Located just off of Old Taylor Road by the water tower, the Whirlpool Trails are yours for exploring. It’s the perfect place to take your dog on a sunny afternoon, ride your bike along the dirt path, or venture into the woods with your hiking books. No two workouts here have to be the same!

University of Mississippi senior Blakely Graham said, “I love to go to Whirlpool Trails because it’s my time alone. I get to think about everything while running. I prefer Whirlpool because of the dirt trail; it’s easier on my knees. I like that there are mile markers because it keeps me working toward a new mile marker every time I run. There is just something so relaxing about running with the shade of big trees and feeling the breeze on my face.”

Tip: If you hike out far enough, there are some beautiful, open grassy areas. Grab a friend and pack a picnic in your backpack for a fun-filled fitness afternoon. Say that five times fast.

For more information, visit http://www.traillink.com/trail/south-campus-rail-trail.aspx.

8. Hot Yoga Plus:

For a more dynamic approach to a very old practice, Hot Yoga Plus in the new Jackson Avenue shopping center is the perfect way to clear your mind while also getting in great cardio. Plus what, you ask? Hot Yoga Plus focuses on each individual who steps into the studio, offering classes of all levels and all temperatures to give every yogi a space to feel comfortable at their own pace. It’s also a high-energy environment, with fun music and modern decor.

University of Mississippi seniors Taylor and Carli Gish are twins who enjoy yoga.

Taylor Gish said, “Hot Yoga Plus isn’t only somewhere I got a quality workout and escaped from school for a little bit, but it’s also somewhere where I was able to build friendships and a community outside of school. They really treat you like family, and taking a class is always a highlight of my day.”

Carli Gish said, “Hot Yoga Plus is like my own little yoga family and home away from home. The relationships I made at Hot Yoga Plus continued when I stepped off of the mat. The instructors and friends I’ve made there will be an important part of the rest of my life.”

Tip: As if clearing your mind and pouring sweat isn’t therapeutic enough, you can also do your fitness one-stop-shop retail therapy at Hot Yoga Plus. With brands like Lululemon, Hot Yoga Plus can help you look the part to feel like a warrior in no time.

For more information, visit http://www.hotyogaplus.com.

Find whatever works for you, and make your health a priority like these Ole Miss students have. Summer is the perfect time to refocus. And if none of these environments are where y’all work out let us know by commenting below!

Anna Anna Larimore is a journalism student enrolled in Meek School of Journalism and New Media. She can be reached at annamlarimore@gmail.com.

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