A stretch of Third Avenue between East 81st and East 85th that might just be the healthiest in all of NYC! While many retail corridors are struggling, this neighborhood has discovered a growth industry, and the expansion is not around the waistline, but in keeping the waistline fit and trim!
East Siders have long been known as a set that has no aversion to spandex and regular exercise. In fact, the most recent studies have shown the obesity rate on the UES at only 8% vs 15% for Manhattan overall -- and heart-palpitating rate of nearly 60% statewide. Could it get even better? If the number of gyms opening and thriving is any indication, the answer is yes. Let's take a look at this stretch of Third Avenue. In four blocks there are 8 places to work out:
-Rumble (84th and 85th). A new boxing-inspired, cardio-themed gym.
Find out what's happening in Upper East Sidefor free with the latest updates from Patch.
- Equinox (85th). The "old guard" at a decade old.
- Exceed Physical Culture (83rd and 84th). Cross Training.
Find out what's happening in Upper East Sidefor free with the latest updates from Patch.
- SoulCycle (83rd). Still packed all the time.
- Bode NYC (83rd). Hot Yoga.
- Y7 (82nd and 83rd). "Hip Hop Yoga". Are they even compatible?
- Moving Strength Pilates (82nd and 83rd).
- Crunch Fitness (81st and 82nd).
Crunch has recently doubled in space, filling a large store vacated by The Arthritis Foundation thrift shop. Is eight not enough? Well folks, breaking news! Another former thrift shop, run to benefit Memorial Sloan Kettering, at 1440 Third Ave (81st and 82nd), has been leased to "305 Fitness", a dance-inspired cardio gym complete with live DJ. To round out the menu of healthy options in the neighborhood, the same stretch also includes two salad bars, two fresh-squeezed juice shops, and a health food store. Plenty of options, but I might just have to hold out for the Led Zeppelin-inspired cold rowing shop that somehow involves beer. Is that asking too much?