I love spending as much time as possible outdoors on the 4th of July! I’ve taught rooftop spin classes, sunbathed at the beach, and camped in the mountains, but my favorite way to spend Independence Day is right here in the Nation’s Capital!
The fireworks on the National Mall have been my favorite fireworks to watch in the region ever since I was a kid. There’s something truly spectacular about watching the fireworks on Independence Day with the Washington Monument and the memorials as the backdrop.
This year, the 4th falls on a Tuesday which feels odd to me, but I know, statistically, it’s happened many times in my lifetime! (Fun fact: The last time the 4th fell on a Tuesday was in 2017.) Unless your employer is feeling especially generous, most people don’t have a long weekend, so you really need to make the most of that day off, and I recommend doing so by making it an active day.
Here are some ways to have an active 4th of July:
OUTDOORS
- Pick a DC Area National Park (or more than one) to visit on Tuesday
- Visit a historic site, plan a hiking excursion or both! RoadRunner Sports has great gear for the entire family to prepare you for whatever activity you decide. They are calling for a hot Fourth of July—be sure to check out their UV-protecting gear.
- Plan a kayaking or stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) trip:
- Tip: Visit REI for your equipment, or check out REI’s local gear rental options.
INDOORS
- Be brave and give yourself permission to be a beginner! Try a fitness class at one of your local studios:
- Try a combination of classes at FITRow in Rockivlle. Inside FitRow you’ll find CorePower, OrangeTheory, and PureBarre.
- On theme: Check out the noon “Baby You’re A Firework” class at CorePower
- Start your day off strong at F45 in Shirlington or Club Pilates at Westpost. Both have morning classes are offered on the 4th—just in time before your day of celebrating begins!
- Try a combination of classes at FITRow in Rockivlle. Inside FitRow you’ll find CorePower, OrangeTheory, and PureBarre.
- Try something new! Have you checked out Planta? Go for a late morning workout at Equinox, and treat yourself to some deliciously creative vegan dishes!
A LITTLE BIT OF BOTH
- Did you know there are some neighborhoods where you can grab a drink at your favorite restaurant and take a stroll around the community? Take a look at the participating restaurants at Westpost and The Village at Shirlington. Check out one of the healthy dining options, then take a to-go drink and explore the neighborhood.
I’ve created the perfect Spotify playlist for your workout or for your 4th of July party! Hit play and enjoy your day. Have a safe and happy 4th!
By day, Alexis Reed (she/her) is a marketing professional in the DC Metro Area. By night, she is a group fitness instructor, yoga teacher, youth volleyball coach, and healthy lifestyle blogger on Flecks of Lex. She hosts The Sweat Fearlessly Podcast and is Co-Founder of DMV Fitness Fam, a local group that promotes diversity in fitness and the great outdoors. Her philosophy is to “Sweat Fearlessly” – having fun and enjoying fitness without worrying about how you look or what other people may think about you. You can follow Alexis’ daily adventures on her Instagram @flecksoflex.
