Vancouver: Top 5 Boutique Fitness Studios
Movement has been a part of my life since I was 5, but we had a complicated relationship growing up together.
I danced for 8 years when I was younger: ballet, jazz, musical theater, and modern. However, I stopped dancing in 2008 because I prioritized my high school studies and didn’t feel like I belonged in that environment as my physical appearance/ build changed once puberty hit. It took me a while - 4 years, actually - to feel comfortable in a studio again.
I took my first group fitness class in 2018 and was completely hooked. I loved the energy and community that came with a group ride in a dark room, the collective burn on the Megaformer, and the collective exhale in a yoga class.
My favourite boutique fitness studios in Vancouver are Jaybird, Lagree West, Spin Society, The Bar Method, and Core Community: read on to find out why!
Vancouver: 3 Solo Date Ideas
Even the most extroverted of extroverts need some introvert time. I love a loud party with a 5 course meal, dancing, and getting dolled up with 50 other people, but also adore a day on my own at a coffee shop with a macaron, decaf oat milk flat white, and a novel.
What makes me happy? What do I like? How do I want to spend my free time?
These were things I asked myself in mid-2020, when I suddenly found myself with an influx of free time on my hands due to excessive vacation days that needed to be used up (thx COVID-19) and the conclusion of a long-term relationship. All of these activities that I would normally do with my ex-partner, like try a new restaurant, attend an event, or even binge watch a show on the couch, I now had to do either alone or with other friends.
Introducing: the solo date.
Read on for my solo date criteria and 3 solo date ideas that may inspire you as you plan your own date.
Doro’s Day Off: Solo Date (Pilates, Facial, & Coffee)
Summer is the perfect time for a solo date. You’re in great spirits, the sun is shining, your clients are out of office, and nothing can ruin your day. During the summer, my firm gives us an extra day off for each summer public holiday, which extends 3 day weekends into 4 day weekends.
I kicked off my BC Day weekend with a much-needed solo date featuring Lagree West, a laser facial at Plain Jane Skin Bar, coffee at Aperture Coffee Bar, and a bonus stop at Burgoo.