Getting fit doesn't need to be expensive. These city-owned recreation centers have a variety of classes and facilities ranging from aerobics, basketball, and martial arts classes to free weights and the latest Nautilus equipment. Some even have swimming pools and indoor tracks.
Annual membership is available at all these rec centers for $50-$250--less than the one-time membership fee for many national chain gyms--and no monthly fees. Most offer discounts for seniors and family memberships.
Arlington Recreation Centers
The city of Arlington runs five recreation centers with large multi-purpose rooms for aerobics and other group classes, fitness rooms with weights and cardio equipment (such as Stairmasters and treadmills), basketball and volleyball courts, locker rooms with shower facilities, and child care. Facilities may vary between the centers. Check the rec center nearest you for exactly what they have to offer.
Contact the Arlington Parks and Recreation Department at (817)459-5474.
Boys Ranch Activity Center
With a full court gymnasium and a fitness room, Jazzercise, yoga, tai chi, and other classes, the Boys Ranch Activity Center has plenty to keep you busy. Run by the city of Bedford.
The Boys Ranch Activity Center is located at 2801 Forest Ridge in Bedford. Call them at (817)952-2323
Dallas Recreation Centers
The city of Dallas runs forty-seven rec centers at various locations throughout the city. Athletics, sports, cultural activities, and even a drop-in summer camp for the kids are offered at most of them.
Alumni Hall Fitness Center
The Alumni Hall Fitness Center in Frisco has a weight room, gymnasium, and a pool where they offer learn-to-swim classes, lifeguard and water safety instructor courses, and water aerobics.
The Alumni Hall Fitness Center is located at 9700 Wade Boulevard. Call them at (972)377-1752.
Community Activities Center
Grapevine has the Community Activities Center with weights, cardio equipment, classes, two full-size gyms, racquetball courts, and an indoor running track.
Mesquite Recreation Centers
Mesquite runs six recreation centers. Each offers a different combination of activities, such as weights, open play basketball, aerobics classes, and other things. Check with each center to find the one that's right for you.
Irving Recreation Centers
The city of Irving has several recreation centers with weight rooms, cardio classes and equipment, basketball and volleyball, and some with swimming pools.
Contact the Irving Parks and Recreation Department at (972)721-2501.
Fort Worth Community Centers
The city of Fort Worth runs seventeen community centers which offer Pilates, martial arts, aerobics, and many other exercise classes.