by Wayne Ramsey

Created on: October 28, 2010

When it comes to exercise, sometimes the most difficult aspect of it can be finding a good place to take advantage of it.  With so many areas of town becoming more and more developed over time a simple run has become something much more frustrating.  It is no longer possible to take a run down the road without having a car whiz past barely missing you.  This is becoming true virtually everywhere around the United States as even the smallest of towns become much more populated and more cars begin to appear on the roads.  Sidewalks are even becoming less desirable as drivers typically pay little attention to cyclists, runners, or walkers when they are crossing streets. 

Finding a location has now become a matter of finding a place that is designated for activity.  Safety has become a far greater concern than it ever was in the past as drivers are paying less attention to what they are doing. 

Where in Mankato is it good to exercise?

In the case of Mankato there are numerous hot spots for exercise.  Since the city is completely filled with a wide variety of parks it is possible to exercise in virtually every corner of the city.  In fact there are so many parks in the city that it is actually difficult to not find a place to exercise here.  Most of the area parks feature enough land for a decent run, bike ride, or a solid walk.  They also provide an opportunity for children to get out and get some exercise as well. 

Parks such as Sibley Park, Lake Dorothy Park, Thomas Park, Riverfront park, Wheeler Park, Rasmussen Park, Benson Park, and Bluff Park all offer numerous amenities that make exercising easy, especially with the family.  Plenty of recreational opportunities exist in these areas allowing for one form of exercise or another.  Given the location many of these parks also provide excellent opportunity for those that are looking to do some cross country skiing as well.

For people that enjoy golfing there are two major golf courses in the area Mankato Golf Club and Minneopa Golf Club.  Located on opposite sides of town it is pretty easy to get to one regardless of where you are located.  These clubs provide fine courses that aren't as good as the ones found in the warmer climate areas but definitely serve their purpose.  This is excellent way to burn off of a few calories during the warmer months. 

If hitting the gym is your style of exercise then women can visit the local Curves off of Hoffman and anyone can visit the Anytime Fitness location off of Riverfront Drive or the X-Force fitness location off of Homestead Drive.  These excellent fitness centers provide high quality equipment and professional training on usage and form for a regular subscription fee.  With snow being a major factor in eliminating outdoor activity in Mankato these indoor options are normally a good idea for those looking to get into shape without running in the snow throughout the winter. 

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