Make It An Active Summer In Essex: 10 Ways To Get Moving

Summer is a great time to get moving in Essex, whether you're looking to join a league, try a new class, spend more time outside or find an active program for the kids.

From city recreation programs and swim lessons to trails, tennis courts and fitness classes, there are plenty of ways to make the most of the season. Be sure to check each website for current schedules, registration details, fees and availability before making plans.

1. Enjoy Camps, Sports And Outdoor Recreation

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Essex Park and Recreation offers a variety of ways to stay active throughout the year, including youth camps, community sports, outdoor programs, park amenities and family-friendly events that encourage healthy, active living.

Essex Park and Recreation
Website: essexct.recdesk.com

2. Hike Through Connecticut’s Second-Largest State Forest

Cockaponset State Forest features more than 100 miles of scenic hiking trails winding through forests, lakes, streams and overlooks, making it one of Connecticut’s premier destinations for outdoor exploration.

Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection
Website: ctparks.com

3. Build Strength With Coach-Led Functional Training

Anchor Fitness offers small-group and personal training sessions focused on strength, mobility, balance and endurance, helping participants move better, feel better and build healthy habits that last.

Anchor Fitness of Essex
Website: anchorfitnessct.com

4. Strengthen And Stretch With Pilates, Yoga And Barre

Flow Essex offers boutique Pilates, yoga and barre classes in a welcoming studio environment, helping participants improve strength, flexibility, balance and overall well-being.

Flow Essex
Website: flowessex.com

5. Express Yourself Through Dance And Movement

River Valley Dance Project offers dance and movement classes for all ages and skill levels, creating a supportive environment where students can build confidence, stay active and discover the joy of creative expression.

River Valley Dance Project
Website: rivervalleydanceproject.com

6. Try Out Fast-Paced Platform Tennis

Essex Platform Tennis Club offers year-round opportunities to stay active through platform tennis, combining friendly competition, skill development and a strong community of players.

Essex Platform Tennis Club
Website: essexpaddle.com

7. Take A Yoga Class

Shikoba Essex offers yoga classes designed to support strength, flexibility and mindfulness, creating a welcoming space to move your body, reduce stress and reconnect with yourself.

Shikoba Essex
Website: shikobaessex.com

8. Take Advantage Of The Valley Shore YMCA

Less than 10 minutes away in Westbrook, the Valley Shore YMCA offers swimming, fitness classes, training programs and wellness opportunities for all ages and activity levels.

Valley Shore YMCA
Website: vsymca.org

9. Play A Round At Quarry Ridge Golf Course

About 20 minutes away in Portland, Quarry Ridge Golf Course offers scenic fairways, year-round tee times and a challenging round of golf for players of all skill levels.

Quarry Ridge Golf Course
Website: quarryridge.com

10. Paddle, Fish or Explore Moodus Reservoir

Lakeside Dan’s in nearby East Haddam offers kayak, canoe and boat rentals on scenic Moodus Reservoir, making it easy to spend an active day on the water surrounded by nature.

Lakeside Dan's
Website: fishlakesidedans.wixsite.com

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