1st Place: The Great Outdoors
2nd Place: YMCA
3rd Place: Highland Fitness

The Chippewa Valley is not hiding its source of fitness motivation. The Great Outdoors (fresh air near you) is the setting of choice for getting active. It is there that folks run, walk, pedal, hike, paddle, and stroke their way to prime fitness and health. Not only do the great outdoors offer the stunning backdrop of the Chippewa River, but membership is completely free! On a rainy day, the YMCA (700 Graham Ave.) provides an outlet for pent-up energy. Whether you expend by pumping it up in the weight room or by pushing it to the limit in a spin class, you’re sure to see someone you know while working out at the Y. Convenience is the key to staying fit, and Highland Fitness (2221 Eastridge Center, 2405 Folsom St., and 3022 Commercial Blvd.) has three locations throughout the Chippewa Valley. The gyms house an array of machinery, and offer group classes like Pilates, Zumba, and Belly Dancing. – Carrie A. Weiss