Is it possible to blend Mardi Gras and wellness? This month’s fitness events prove you can. Studios from across the city are hosting Carnival-inspired workouts to help you reset and have fun amidst the Mardi Gras madness. Now grab a friend and get sweaty!
Detox. Retox. Repeat.
Karina Marie Yoga is hosting a yoga class on Saturdays and Sundays in the French Quarter to help you detox your Mardi Gras indulgences before you do it all again. Class is held on the outside deck of the W New Orleans and will feature a mindful vinyasa flow appropriate for all levels. Mats are available to borrow on a first come, first serve basis, so make sure to bring your own if you have one.
When: Saturday, Feb. 1, 8, & 29; Sunday, Feb. 2 & 9; 9:30 – 10:30 a.m.
Where: W New Orleans – French Quarter, 316 Chartres St.
Cost: $15
Enjoy free yoga & healthy brunch at True Food Kitchen
Kick off Mardi Gras with healthy food and a challenging workout. Local yoga instructor Mark Berger is teaching a free yoga class at True Food Kitchen, a plant-based eatery located in downtown New Orleans. Linger after class for brunch, where yogis get a special 15 percent discount off their meal.
When: Sunday, Feb. 2, 8:30-9:30 a.m.
Where: True Food Kitchen, 801 St. Charles Ave.
Cost: FREE for yoga, 15 percent off brunch. Reserve your spot here.
Yoga + Live Music with Little Freddie King
The Church Of Yoga is celebrating its third birthday with free yoga accompanied by live blues by Little Freddie King. A New Orleans blues legend, Little Freddie King is a must-see, and the studio’s funky accents like a glitter fountain and a mural of Mardi Gras Indians will get you into the carnival spirit. Located in the Seventh Ward near Tremé/Mid-City, the studio offers donation-based classes seven days a week.
When: Friday, Feb. 7, 6-7 p.m.
Where: Church of Yoga NOLA, 1480 North Rocheblave St.
Cost: FREE
Race through the streets during Rock ‘n’ Roll New Orleans
Whether you’re a diehard distance runner or a casual jogger or walker, the Rock ‘n’ Roll series has a race distance for you. Choose between a 5K, 10K, half marathon, or full marathon race, and get access to the pre and post race festivities, which include live music, food, and drinks. All participants receive race swag, including a custom medal, t-shirt, and more. Make sure you register in advance of race day.
When: Saturday, Feb. 8 & Sunday, Feb. 9
Where: Varies based upon race distance
Cost: $49 – $125 based on race distance
February Yoga With a Vue
Escape the hub-bub of carnival time in the beautiful outdoor oasis of Longue Vue House and Gardens. This multi-acre estate houses a half-dozen gardens to explore, and regularly hosts fitness classes throughout the year. This month, join the Pilates and Yoga Loft for an hour of gentle yoga outdoors, or inside during inclement weather.
When: Sunday, Feb. 16, 10-11 a.m.
Where: Longue Vue House and Gardens
Cost: $10 or FREE for members
Take a class at the Body Shoppe
This fitness and community hub on Freret Street blends HIIT, yoga, cardio, weights, and dance into one sweaty workout. The studio resembles a dance floor with colored lights, a bumpin’ sound system, and heat panels to ensure you work up a good sweat. Swing by for social events like “Crafts and Drafts,” an hour of Mardi Gras costume crafting on February 9 at 1 p.m., and a free “BS Mardi Gras Tailgate” that includes king cake, hair braiding, a glitter bar, and bellini bar. Carnival time tip: book a session at the studio’s infrared sauna to detox your indulgences.
When: Classes occur every day. See the schedule here.
Where: 4537 Freret St.
Cost: $27 drop-in, or take advantage of the intro special: 5 classes for $49
Mardi Gras Flow + Nyx Watch Party
Free To Be Power Yoga is kicking off carnival with a heated yoga class set to Mardi Gras tunes and parade watching. Located on the Uptown parade route on Magazine Street, the studio will host an hour and fifteen-minute class, followed by drinks and amenities to enjoy the Nyx parade.
When: Wednesday, Feb. 20, 5:45 p.m.
Where: Free To Be Power Yoga Uptown, 4609 Magazine St.
Cost: $20 drop-in
