Photo: Getty Images
Fitness activities level up around the holidays. From fun runs to ugly sweater-themed workout sessions, there’s something for every fitness buff to get into the holiday spirit this month:
Holiday Yoga Series at University Town Center
Wednesday, Dec. 15, 140 University Drive, Sarasota, eventbrite.com
Every Wednesday from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m., The Green at UTC is home to a free holiday-themed yoga class. Bring family and friends to relax and recharge during a stressful time of shopping and event planning. Classes are outdoors. Bring your own mat. RSVP here.
Ugly Sweater Mid-Month Party at Crunch Fitness
Wednesday, Dec. 15, 8475 Heritage Green Way, Bradenton, (941) 714-4810, facebook.com
You don’t have to be a Crunch member in order to enjoy this free event. Wear your ugly sweater, eat some delicious food, listen to music and shop from local vendors. Participate in some workout demonstrations, too. The event takes place from 5 to 8 p.m. RSVP on Facebook.
Lakewood Ranch Jingle Run 5K
Friday, Dec. 17, along Main Street, Lakewood Ranch, thejingle5k.org
The Publix Jingle 5K Run and Walk is returning for its 10th year. Participate in a number of events down Main Street in Lakewood Ranch. Register for the event now, then pick up your race packet at Fit2Run at the UTC mall. On the day of the race, registration opens at 4 p.m. A kids’ race starts at 6 p.m., while the 5K kicks off at 7 p.m. and a walk follows at 7:10 p.m. A post-race festival will follow. Registerhere.
Full Moon Meditation & Yoga for the New Year
Saturday, Dec. 18, 439 Tamiami Trail S., Suite 108, Venice, (941) 275-9890, eventbrite.com
Prepare for the New Year with this relaxing full moon meditation and yoga session with Heart Space Center in Venice. Class is from 6 to 7 p.m. and costs $35 per person. Listen to healing sounds and make healthy resolutions for 2022. Register here.
Sarasota Christmas Glow Run 5K
Saturday, Dec. 18, 891 N. Cattlemen Road., Sarasota,nathanbendersonpark.org
Dash through this 5K at Nathan Benderson Park on Saturday starting at 5:50 p.m. The race course will be lined with Christmas decorations and each participant will be given glow products to help light up the night. Spectators can watch for free. Packet pickup is from 4 to 6 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 17. Registration links and costs are on thewebsite.
Zumba Sarasota Naughty or Nice Party
Thursday, Dec. 23, 4900 Fruitville Road, Sarasota, (941) 374-1560,facebook.com
Show off your skills at this holiday dance party. Get in a cardio workout before the festivities. Class starts at 10 a.m. in person or online. Dress code is your favorite “naughty or nice” workout gear. Register on the studio’s website or emailbethzumbasarasota@gmail.com for more information.
Holiday Hits! Ride at Off the Handle Cycling
Friday, Dec. 24, 4061 Clark Road, Sarasota, (941) 923-5100, offthehandlesrq.com
Join a Christmas Eve ride at Off the Handle Cycling Studio. The special ride will have all the best holiday pop songs, with an upbeat tempo to get you feeling festive and feeling the burn. Class is from 9:30 to 10:15 a.m. Register for the class online.