Whether you’re a religious seven-days-a-week gym buff or just a weekend warrior, you’ll want to plan now for these outdoor summer favorites that’ll raise your pulse—and your spirits—while you get a breath of fresh air.
RUN
Elvis is Alive 5K
Dress up like the King for this gut buster starting in Grant Park, then crunch brews and food at a party with live music. 6:30 p.m. Aug. 7. $25-$30. Registration: fleetfeetchicago.com
PADDLE
Whale Watching on a Tall Ship
Sightings are highly unlikely, but you can still give your eyes a workout aboard the 77-foot Red Witch schooner. Add cardio by volunteering to help raise and lower sails.
Bonus: Sails are BYOB and BYOF
Sign up: 5:15 p.m. Fridays through Sept. 19. $50. Registration recommended. 312-404-5800.
Sunset Paddle
Work your biceps during a kayak trip along the Chicago River with Kayak Chicago. No experience required. 6 p.m. Sundays through Sept. 28. $50. Registration required. 630-336-7245.
'Paddle into the Past' tour
The Chicago History Museum hosts three-hour architectural tours on the Chicago River, led by Kayak Chicago guides. 10 a.m. Aug. 9. $50-$55. Registration required: chicagohistory.org
KICK
free!
Millennium Park Workouts
Bust your grass on the Great Lawn with 45-minute sessions led by Lakeshore Athletic Club instructors and local dancers. 8 a.m. Saturdays through Sept. 27. 312-742-1168.
free!
Chicago SummerDance Festival
Shake it to world music, jazz, funk, big band and ballroom in the Grant Park Spirit of Music Garden. Don’t know polka from foxtrot? Hourlong lessons kick things off. 6 p.m. Thursdays-Saturdays; 4 p.m. Sundays, through Aug. 24. 312-742-4007.
[ Rebecca Palmore is the Metromix events producer. ] rkpalmore@tribune.com