In our perfect bachelorette series, we’re mapping out the perfect activities for every kind of bride, from the fashionista to the foodie, the adventure gal to the party girl. First up, the perfect weekend for the active bride. You know, the one who runs the New York Marathon each year, swears by her spin class and is killing that FitBit step challenge (she won’t stop taunting you!). Fill your healthy bachelorette weekend with lots of fitness, while remembering to balance it with a bit of relaxation and to allow room for indulgence.
Make sure your guests are on board for an active weekend
You should expect and understand that your guests will be used to different levels of activity and have different levels of experience. Some may view child’s pose as about as bendy as they go, while others are floating a crow pose like it’s nbd. Just make sure the girls you invite are game for an active weekend. Be clear about your plans so that attendees know what to pack (running shoes, fitness attire, yoga mat, etc.) and aware of what they are getting into. Make sure to emphasize that you really want everyone to participate in all the activities. As the host, that means you should be mindful of guests’ skill levels when working out the schedule (choose a 5K rather than a half marathon, a beginning class over the advanced). But that also means that guests are signing on to get outside their comfort zone a bit and be up for whatever.
Run a 5K together
A 5K is the perfect distance for a healthy bachelorette party. Your guests won’t need to do any special training to prepare, and you’ll be finished before noon, leaving plenty of time for other activities. We adore these In It For the Long Run tanks from Fit Little Bride to keep the party looking sharp and coordinated. And make sure to schedule a yummy post-run brunch to celebrate (mimosas encouraged)!
Rent bikes and take a tour
Renting bikes can be a fun way to see a city and stay active. Book a tour, like the Napa Valley Bike Tour, with stops at wineries and vineyards for tastings along the way, or Get Up and Ride’s Brooklyn Sunset and Brews tour, which takes in gorgeous views of the sun setting over the East River and the street art of North Brooklyn before ending with artisanal brews. If you’re craving a bit more freedom, just rent by the hour and head out on your own to explore. Local farmer’s markets or craft fairs make great stops along the way.
Attend a yoga class
After getting in some cardio, it will feel good to stretch your muscles and have a calming moment. If yoga’s not her thing, just book the class you think she’ll most enjoy, be it kick-boxing, barre, spinning or rock climbing.
Keep healthy snacks on hand
Save your indulgence for your meals out by stocking your lodging with healthy snacks and plenty of bottled water. You’ll feel much better about that donut at brunch or that amazing pasta dish at dinner if you haven’t spent the afternoon or night before filling up on chips, dip and sodas. Opt for veggies and fruit, and choose hummus, fresh salsas or Greek yogurt dips to keep things light.
Go on a hike
Climb a mountain, find a waterfall, stroll on the beach or wander in the woods. Even urban bachelorettes can plan a day exploring the city’s parks or “urban hiking,” i.e., exploring a neighborhood. For example, San Francisco bach parties can spend an hour or two exploring the Mission District to see the amazing street art on every corner (make sure to grab a fish taco from one of the taquerias lining 24th Street before you go).
Challenge the bachelor party
Meet up with the groom’s bachelor party and get ready for a good ol’ fashioned boys vs. girls smackdown. Head to a local park for a game of kickball or dodgeball, throwback classic games everyone can enjoy. Or set up a field day with multiple events, like a sack race and egg toss. The losing team buys the winners a round of drinks before the two parties go their separate ways.
Indulge a little
An active weekend will help the bride (and her guests) feel good and keep on track with any fitness goals. But it’s OK to indulge—it’s a bachelorette party after all! Balance your active days with stops at great restaurants and bars, and be sure to include a few of the bride’s favorite treats along the way.
Image credits, top to bottom: Fit Little Bride, Wedding Chicks, Andrea Lee Photography, Michelle Able Photography, Ruth Joy Photography, Free to Be Photography, Angela Cox Photography