Stay Active This Winter: South Boston Edition
Winter in South Boston doesn’t have to mean hibernation.
While the cold can make it tempting to stay inside and wait for spring, staying active during the winter months is key to keeping your energy up, maintaining fitness, and fighting off the seasonal blues. Fortunately, Southie has plenty of options to keep you moving, even when the temperature drops. Here are some great ways to stay active this winter in South Boston:
1. Pickleball at PKL
Pickleball is exploding in popularity, and there’s no better place to play than PKL in Southie. This indoor facility offers a fun, social, and competitive way to stay active without having to brave the cold. Whether you’re a seasoned player or just getting started, PKL has courts, equipment rentals, and even a full bar and restaurant to make it a full experience. Plus, playing pickleball is a great way to work on agility, hand-eye coordination, and cardiovascular endurance.
2. Indoor Rock Climbing at Rock Spot
If you’re looking for an adventurous way to stay active, Rock Spot Climbing on Old Colony Ave is the perfect indoor challenge. Climbing engages your entire body—legs, core, and upper body—while also sharpening your mental focus. Whether you’re bouldering or tackling the taller walls, this is a great way to push yourself physically while escaping the cold.
3. Bundling Up for a Beach Walk
Just because it's winter doesn’t mean you should avoid the beach. Walking along Carson Beach or M Street Beach in the colder months is a refreshing way to get outside, soak up some sunlight, and breathe in the fresh ocean air. Layer up, grab a coffee from Caffé Nero or Deja Brew, and get some steps in while enjoying the winter seascape. Plus, with fewer crowds, it can be a peaceful and scenic experience.
4. Castle Island Walks
Castle Island is a Southie classic, and it’s just as good in the winter as it is in the summer. A brisk walk around the loop will get your heart rate up while offering great views of the harbor. The cold air can be invigorating, and you’ll likely spot other dedicated walkers and runners out there. If you're feeling bold, grab a hot chocolate or a bite from Sully’s, which stays open through part of the winter season.
5. Try a Local Gym or Fitness Studio
If you want to stay warm while getting a great workout, check out some of South Boston’s local gyms and fitness studios. I won't name them specifically as I am a competitor, but there are lots of good ones you can find ;) . Group fitness classes can help keep motivation high during the colder months.
6. Join a Running Club
Many local running groups, like South Boston Running Club, continue training through the winter. Running in the cold might sound daunting, but with the right layers and a good warm-up, it can be one of the best ways to stay in shape. Plus, the community aspect keeps you accountable.
7. Try Hot Yoga or Pilates
Warm up while improving flexibility and strength with a hot yoga or Pilates class. Studios like South Boston Yoga offer heated classes that can be a perfect way to stay active while escaping the chill.
Pro Tips for Staying Active in Winter:
Layer up – Wear moisture-wicking base layers and a wind-resistant outer shell to stay comfortable outside.
Schedule it – Book your indoor activities like pickleball or climbing in advance so you have set plans to stay active.
Stay social – Winter workouts are easier when you have a friend to join you, whether it’s a game of pickleball, a climbing session, or a weekend walk.
Listen to your body – If it’s too cold, opt for an indoor workout to avoid unnecessary exposure.
Winter doesn’t have to slow you down. Whether you’re hitting the pickleball courts, scaling climbing walls, taking a crisp walk along the shore, or trying a new gym class, South Boston has plenty of ways to keep you moving all season long. What’s your favorite way to stay active in the winter? Drop a comment and let’s keep Southie moving!