Co-written by Lydia Prince
Those who have visited the Walt Disney World Resort’s four theme parks know how much walking is involved each day. There can be a lot of eating involved on a Disney vacation as well, from delectable desserts, character dining, International Food & Wine Festival, International Flower & Garden Festival, and so on. But did you know that various resorts also offer fitness classes, running trails, and fun runs? During our most recent stay at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort and Spa, my daughter, Lydia, and I took advantage of two free fitness offerings at the resort.
Rise and Shine Yoga
by Lydia Prince
Doing complimentary yoga at the Grand Floridian was a dream of mine. Months prior to my trip, I saw internet posts about the Rise and Shine Yoga at the Grand Floridian, but there were no updated posts about it, so I began to believe it was no longer offered. After a long day of travel, I was walking back from Gasparilla Island Grill when I was pleasantly surprised to see the sign that I had seen in the posts months ago. It stated that the yoga class would be held Tuesdays and Thursdays from [8:30]-[9:00] AM at the Summerhouse.
The next morning I found myself taking a short walk from the Villas to the Summerhouse. Upon my arrival, a lovely Cast Member was outside the Summerhouse with a cart. All I had to do was sign my name, and then she gave me a mat, towel, and a DASANI® water with my choice of room temperature or cold.
The class did not take place in the Summerhouse but right next to it. I believe the location is where it is so if a random Floridian rain were to appear, a shelter would be near, and the class would be able to continue. It was nice and shaded under the trees, with views of the Seven Seas Lagoon and the Polynesian Village Resort, while still being surrounded by the luxurious Grand Floridian.
The class began promptly at [8:30] AM. The teacher was phenomenal like most yoga teachers are, and she was very welcoming to all of the students. The class was full of experienced and new yogis. There were (well behaved) children, families, and some yogis like me who went alone. I even saw one dad in a polo and khaki shorts, so dress in whatever is comfortable for you. The teacher offered modifications for all of the poses. This class was on concrete, so she recommended laying the towel underneath the mat for more comfort.
Whether you are just spending the day at the resort, getting ready for a day of exploring the parks, or recovering from or preparing for a day of travel, I highly recommend taking advantage of this complimentary class. Make sure to check the sign, or ask the front desk for the time and location as the Rise and Shine Yoga is not always offered.
Running Trail at the Grand Floridian Resort
by Vanessa Prince
Over the years, my family has enjoyed staying at various resorts at Walt Disney World, and one thing I have noticed at the majority of resorts is a map of a running trail. The courses are not long, maybe a mile, but they are a safe and fun way to stay in shape while staying on property whether you walk or run.
The running trail at the Grand Floridian is really nice as you wind your way around the resort, past the pools, Seven Seas Lagoon, Wedding Pavilion and eventually over to the Polynesian Village Resort. Before heading out on my adventure, I did stop and look at the map to make sure I took the right turns and did not end up in a Cast Member only area. The trail was very flat and offered many photo opportunities along the way, including a view of Cinderella Castle, Main Street, U.S.A. and the Magic Kingdom Train Station. Once I arrived at the Polynesian Village Resort I glanced at their map. I did take a wrong turn, but eventually, I was able to find the beach and paths that took me past the pretty bungalows and over to the Ticket and Transportation Center.
It was a very hot and humid June day at WDW the day I ran, so make sure you take water with you and your MagicBand in case you want to cool off with a Dole Whip! I even managed to run into a fellow WDW Radio running friend, Whitney, while I was headed back to my villa. The trail says it is .9 miles long, making a round trip to the TTC and back 1.8 miles. So don’t forget to pack your running shoes and hit the running trails at the WDW resorts!
Other Running Trails
Several running trails are located around Walt Disney World Resort, including trails at:
- Disney’s BoardWalk Inn & Villas
- Disney’s Beach Club & Yacht Club Resorts
- Disney’s Wilderness Lodge
- Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort
- Disney’s Port Orleans Riverside & French Quarter Resorts
Fun Runs
Several of the Walt Disney World Resorts now offer fun runs. Check out my post about these fun, family-oriented events, and a post by Kathy Wicks about running trails at Walt Disney World.
All programs are subject to change without notice.
Photos from the author’s personal collection.
To learn more about Vanessa and read her recent posts for the WDW Radio Blog, visit her author page.
