A gym membership is not the only way to get in shape. Toronto has hundreds of kilometres of trails, waterfront paths, outdoor fitness equipment and city recreation programs, many of them free. Here is how to stay active in every season without spending much.

Walk, run and cycle the city’s trails

• Martin Goodman Trail: a flat waterfront path stretching across the city, ideal for running, cycling and rollerblading.
• Lower Don Trail and Crothers Woods: ravine routes that feel far from downtown.
• Humber River Recreational Trail: a long, scenic path on the west side.
• High Park: rolling hills, forest trails and Grenadier Pond.
• Rouge National Urban Park: Canada’s first national urban park, with hiking trails in the city’s east end.

Use free outdoor gyms and stairs

Many City of Toronto parks have outdoor fitness equipment for strength and stretching. Stair climbs such as the Baldwin Steps near Casa Loma offer a tough cardio workout with a view. Body-weight routines (squats, lunges, push-ups and planks) need no equipment at all.

Join city recreation programs

Toronto Parks, Forestry and Recreation runs drop-in programs at community centres, including swimming, skating, fitness classes and sports. Many drop-in programs are free or low cost. Check the city’s online program guide for times near you. Mississauga, Brampton, Vaughan and other GTA municipalities offer similar programs.

Embrace winter

• Outdoor skating: the City of Toronto operates dozens of outdoor rinks with free public skating, including Nathan Phillips Square and the Bentway.
• Winter walking and snowshoeing: ravine trails stay beautiful in winter. Use traction cleats on icy paths.
• Tobogganing: only at designated city hills.

Low-cost options when you want a class

• Community centre memberships are usually far cheaper than private gyms.
• Many studios offer a free first class or introductory passes.
• Free online workout videos and apps can guide home sessions.

Build a habit that lasts

Canada’s 24-Hour Movement Guidelines recommend that adults get at least 150 minutes of moderate to vigorous physical activity per week, plus muscle-strengthening activities at least twice a week. Start small: a brisk 30-minute walk five days a week reaches that goal. Choose activities you enjoy, find a friend to train with and track your progress.

Talk to your doctor before starting a new exercise program if you have a health condition. For more wellness guides, visit our Health section.