Where to Work Out in Brunswick, Melbourne: Your Ultimate Guide
The lively neighbourhood of Brunswick is known for its arts, music and bohemian chic vibes. But what many people don’t know is that there is also loads of amazing places to work out! From climbing equipment to playgrounds to sweeping open spaces and footy ovals, here’s your guide to working out in Brunswick, Melbourne.
Gilpin Park
The most prominent park in Brunswick is Gilpin Park, which offers large swaths of grassy areas, crisscrossed with pathways and dotted with trees (which can prove very useful on the hotter days of the year). The large green spaces make this park ideal for those people looking for a place to do a solid cardio workout, since there’s no need to worry about explosive moves getting you entangled with other parkgoers. The very large size of this park also makes it ideal for those looking to join an outdoor fitness class in Brunswick, since many people can work out at the same time without issue.
Additionally, there is a playground in the north-east corner of Gilpin Park with a range of equipment that can be used for bodyweight exercises and plyos as part of your fitness routine. It also has a couple of ping pong tables, which could make for a fun cool-down after your workout session as well as adding a social aspect to your routine.
For those who like to run with their furry friend, Gilpin Park also has an enclosed dog park and a water tap.
Clifton Park
Just across the street from Gilpin Park is Clifton Park, another large green space in the Brunswick area. This park has large open spaces similar to Gilpin, as well as well-surfaced paths that zig-zag throughout. Get together with your fitness group to take advantage of the open fields, or opt for a solo workout running along the many paths. Clifton Park also houses an oval, making it an ideal spot for those people looking for a footy-themed workout (why not invite some work friends along and make a match of it?).
Clifton Park is also home to Brunswick Skatepark, which, generally speaking, is best left to the skaters. However, if it is empty of an evening, the large concrete structures can make the perfect perch for dips and jumps – just stay out of the bowls.
Practically speaking, there are tables if you need them, as well as drinking water and shelter for those less-than-perfect afternoons. This park also allows dogs to walk off-leash as long as they are under control – something worth noting, whether you’re looking to bring your pet along or would prefer to avoid others’.
Brunswick Park (aka Clifton Park West)
Across the road once more lies Brunswick Park, also known as Clifton Park West (since it is essentially the other half of Clifton Park, having been carved in two by Victoria Street). This park is significantly smaller than the first two on our list, but still has plenty enough space for either a group or solo workout. Moreover, this park has the benefit of more trees, making finding a shady spot that much easier. Additionally, Brunswick Park has a small shelter, drinking water and, most importantly, public bathrooms. This makes it a great park to head to for a long workout in any weather without having to worry.
Temple Park
Temple Park is an ideal choice for those living in the south-west of Brunswick. Despite its smaller size, it still has enough open space to run through any solo workout, as well as a playground that can be used creatively for exercises that require some equipment. When faced with a park like this, it can be hard to know how you can adapt what’s around you for your ideal fitness plan. In this case, it is well worth the option to hire a personal trainer in Brunswick to help you build a fitness regime and show you innovative ways to exercise outside. Another bonus of Temple Park is the half basketball court, where you can run through some drills with friends as part of your workout. The park also has public bathrooms for your convenience and drinking water to keep you hydrated.
Barkly Street Park
A stone’s throw from a shopping centre, and looking out over a carpark, Barkly Street Park doesn’t look like much at all. In fact, it’s the kind of place that you might just skip over for your workout routine… but that would be a huge mistake! This little gem is actually packed full of all kinds of equipment, making it one of the best parks to work out in Brunswick. In addition to the playground, there is also a bouldering/parkour block – which, if used imaginatively, could open a whole new world of exercises! There are also several basketball half-courts, an area with sheltered space, and a drinking water point. And, of course, enough open space to be useful.
Brunswick is home to many amazing outdoor spots that are perfect for a park-based workout. Whether you’re looking for a wide, open area for furious sprints or an unusual spot for dips (we’re looking at you, Clifton Park), you’re sure to find the right place in Brunswick. The five listed here are probably the best parks to work out in Brunswick, Melbourne, whether you’re going solo or part of a group – but that shouldn’t stop you exploring your local area to see what else is out there!