Anytime Fitness hosts free workouts in Cain Park

Parents often urge their children to “turn off that television set and go outside and play.” The staff of Anytime Fitness in University Heights believes everyone could use a little more active fun; that’s why the gym is hosting playful exercise events at Cain Park in Cleveland Heights each Saturday in May, 9–10 a.m. Everyone, not just Anytime Fitness members, is invited to participate.

“Somewhere along the line, people started believing that exercise had to be hard work,” said Shaun Yanulaitis, Anytime Fitness manager. “That’s simply not true. Many forms of exercise, especially outdoors on a beautiful spring day, will leave you busting-a-gut laughing—and we aim to prove it.”

A certified personal trainer will lead each of the four consecutive May Free Workouts on May 6, 13, 20 and 27.

The workouts will feature fun events such as relay races, obstacle courses and musical games. The May Free Workouts concept, inspired by the grassroots efforts of a few Anytime Fitness clubs that regularly offer free outdoor “boot camps,” has grown into a nationwide campaign to promote physical fitness.

The workouts will take place in Cain Park, at the corner of Taylor and Superior roads, and are appropriate for people of any fitness level. Participants should wear comfortable clothing and tennis shoes, and bring a bottle of water.

"We’re passionate about helping people get to a healthier place,” said Yanulaitis. “That can mean different things to different people. For some, it’s losing weight or gaining strength. For others, it’s improving balance or flexibility. The important thing is to find physical activities that you enjoy, so being active is something you look forward to—rather than dread.”