Reviewed by: Callie Morrison
Ditch the gym and try something new with 8 unique + fun workouts in Birmingham
ByGrace Howard
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Reading time: 6 minutes
Let’s be honest—sometimes the thought of hitting the gym feels more like a chore than a chance to move your body. If you’ve ever wished your workout felt more like free time or a dance party (or even an aerial circus act), you’re not alone.
Whether you’re looking to shake up your routine, make new friends or just not do another squat in front of a mirror, we’ve got you covered.
Read on for eight unexpected ways to get active in Birmingham.
1. Aerial pilates + yoga
Aero Joe Pilates
Aero Joe Pilates is Birmingham’s longest running pilates studio, probably best known for their exhilarating aerial yoga classes (which are definitely on my bucket list).
With exercise variations for all levels, this unique workout is a perfect way to mix up your routine and have some fun.
- Location: 2805 2nd Ave S # 100, Birmingham, AL 35233
- Website | Facebook | Instagram
2. Boxing
Battle Republic
Have you ever wanted to just unleash your stress and punch something… or is that just me?
At Battle Republic, a boxing gym located in Homewood, they use HIIT and strength training combined with a killer playlist so you can blow off some steam and have fun doing it.
- Location: 2800 18th St S, Homewood, AL 35209
- Website | Facebook | Instagram
3. Climbing
High Point Climbing Gym
Unlike a regular gym filled with equipment like treadmills and weights, climbing gyms offer a unique exercise experience from ascending top-rope courses to strengthening your core and arms on the bouldering walls.
This is a great way to make friends in a new city, strengthen muscles that aren’t typically engaged and even get a mental workout by strategizing your way through courses.
- Location: 4766 US-280, Birmingham, AL 35242
- Website | Instagram | Facebook
4. Kickball
GO Kickball Birmingham
Are you new to the city, or just looking for a fun way to make friends? GO Kickball might be for you.
This Birmingham kickball league encourages participants to let loose, get competitive and channel their inner child for an epic season of kickball. Leagues will play once a week for seven weeks, consisting of six regular games plus playoffs and a championship game to conclude the season.
- Location: George Ward Park, 1901 Green Springs Ave S, Birmingham, AL 35209
- Website | Instagram | Facebook
5. Pickleball
City Walk BHAM
In case you haven’t noticed, everyone is playing pickleball these days. The good news? The pickleball community is welcoming and inclusive, so it’s super easy to get involved.
At City Walk BHAM, there are 10 courts to play on and weekly pickleball clinics for players of all levels. If you’re ready to get in the game but not sure where to start, check out our guide to pickleball at City Walk including weekly events, what you need to bring and how to reserve courts.
- Location: City Walk BHAM Pink Block, 875 24th St N, Birmingham, AL 35203
- Website | Instagram | Facebook
The Picklr
Looking to beat the heat this summer? The Picklr in Vestavia Hills is a new indoor-only pickleball facility, featuring 10 indoor courts, four championship-sized courts and a pro shop.
Plus, it’s open 18 hours a day from 6AM to midnight, meaning you can play as much as your heart desires.
- Location: 1031 Montgomery Hwy, Vestavia Hills, AL
- Website | Instagram | Facebook
6. Biking
Birmingham Urban Mountain Peddlers (BUMP)
Have you always wanted to try mountain biking but don’t know where to start?
The mission of Birmingham Urban Mountain Peddlers (BUMP) is to build, preserve, maintain and ride trails in the Birmingham and surrounding area. Each month, BUMP hosts group rides that are open to riders of all abilities and give new members a chance to learn from more experienced riders.
They also offer ample volunteer opportunities for those wanting to lend a hand, including trail work and helping out with race events.
Redemptive Cycles
Another great resource for cyclists is Redemptive Cycles, a bike shop and nonprofit organization in Birmingham. In addition to programs like Earn-a-Bike and Sliding-Scale Repairs, they also host weekly Thursday night rides through The Magic City.
Just meet behind the shop for an 8-10 mile ride with a stop at a halfway point to socialize. Make sure to charge your lights and air up your tires before you get started!
- Location: 906 1st Ave N, Birmingham, AL 35203
- Website | Instagram | Facebook
7. Dance
Pole dance at Studio Steel
Pole dancing, or vertical barre, is more than just a workout—it’s a full-body confidence booster. Beyond the physical benefits like core strength and upper body strength, it’s an empowering way to express yourself, build confidence and join a supportive, body-positive community.
At Studio Steel in Birmingham, you have the option to join a group class, get private lessons and even be a part of dance showcases. Classes range from beginner to expert level with certified instructors.
- Location: 2130 Highland Ave, Birmingham, AL 35205
- Website | Instagram
Bellydance at Dala Dance Company
Dala Dance Company offers American Tribal Style belly dance classes in Birmingham. Classes are directed by Liz Malcom, who has been studying belly dance for more than 20 years. She offers both in-person and online classes, ranging from beginner to advanced.
Dala’s goal is to create a fun and supportive community that strives to encourage and empower each other through group dance and cultural appreciation.
8. Walking
Bham Babes Walking Club
Don’t underestimate the power of a good walk. This simple, low-impact exercise can boost your heart health, improve mood, strengthen muscles and support weight management.
That’s why in 2023, Birmingham local Caroline Foster started the Bham Babes Walking Club to make friends who also loved going for walks. They have a team of walk leaders who spread out through downtown Birmingham, Trussville and South Birmingham and walk up to four times per week.
The Walking Society
Free on Mondays at 6PM? Join The Walking Society in Birmingham, a weekly walking club for a stroll through different areas of the city. This is a great way to make friends and get in some easy, low-impact exercise.
Stay tuned on their Instagram for weekly meet-up spots and other updates.
What are some of your fave, unique workouts in Birmingham? Let us know on social @bhamnow!
