Snapdragon Stadium: Everything You Need To Know
In the center of Mission Valley stands San Diego’s newest sports venue: Snapdragon Stadium, the new SDSU Football Stadium. Located on SDSU’s expansion campus, it replaced the aging Jack Murphy/Qualcomm/SDCCU Stadium, much to both the chagrin and the excitement of locals. The new location opened in the summer of 2022 to great fanfare (and infamous heat), welcoming thousands of excited San Diegans through its gates to enjoy professional and collegiate sports. Like all large sporting arenas, Snapdragon has plenty to offer visitors of all ages. This handy guide should answer most questions you have about the place.Snapdragon Stadium Events & TicketsThe San Diego State Football Stadium doesn’t just host SDSU Aztec games, of course, but a wide array of events, including Monster Jam, concerts, other sporting events and more. Check the schedule here and book tickets in advance: Snapdragon Stadium Events & TicketsWhen choosing seats, remember the stadium runs north to south. The east side will experience sun all day, while end zone areas provide cheaper if somewhat diminished, views without having to stare into the sun. The west side seats enjoy perpetual shade after the early afternoon and have become my favorite when attending games as a result. No seats have bad sight lines, and none are obstructed, though. Since restrooms and concessions abound, which seats you choose comes down to personal preference.Snapdragon StadiumA large, ultra-modern rectangle of steel and concrete, Snapdragon Stadium presents the ultimate in modern sporting venues. It boasts clean lines, large open spaces, and plenty of varied seating and standing-room areas from which to enjoy games and concerts — a far cry from the monochromatic monolith it replaced. Between the stands of the SDSU stadium, spectators can also view the surrounding valley escarpments, a dramatic background to the action on the field.It holds fewer patrons than an MLB or NFL stadium — roughly 35,000 spectators — making it a much more intimate, cozy spot. Attendees feel very close to the action on the field, and I can only imagine how great a concert sounds!While beautiful, the place provides very, very little shade, either in the concourse or in the seating bowl. Make sure to slather on sunscreen, drink plenty of water, and wear a hat with sunglasses.A main concourse on the ground level, as well as two upper concourses on the east and west sides, hold multiple bars, restaurants, and guest service stations. Several high-roller suites on both sides of the park provide incredible luxury packages.A large shop in the southeastern corner sells gear for showing team pride and numerous water bottles, sunblock, and the like for enjoying the games.The surrounding lots will eventually house classrooms, dormitories, shops, restaurants, and an elegant park along the riverfront. Now, however, these spaces contain little apart from open green spaces and parking lots, which such buildings will consume.Snapdragon Stadium TeamsThe stadium primarily hosts San Diego State’s Aztecs football team, whose colors, regalia, and murals abound throughout and why it is also often referred to as the “Aztec Stadium San Diego”. Even the 35,000 seats come in red, black, and grey, echoing this team’s predominance. Additionally, this will be the new stadium for San Diego State’s college football team. San Diego State University has begun using the field for other sports, too, such as its soccer teams.Professional sporting teams have similarly come to call Snapdragon home. This summer, the San Diego Wave, a recent National Women’s Soccer expansion team, broke attendance records before a sold-out crowd. They continue to dazzle supporters as they head into the playoffs. The San Diego Loyal, a minor-league men’s soccer team, have eyed the stadium as new tenants. Whether or not they make the move remains to be seen, despite many fans pushing for the move, which could propel the Loyal into Major League Soccer status. One can hope, at any rate.Beginning with the new season in 2023, San Diego’s Major League Rugby team, the Legion, have scheduled a move to this location from the SDSU Sport Deck, hopefully increasing their visibility and fanbase. For a full list of San Diego’s sports teams, check out: Do You Know These “Other” San Diego Sports Teams.Snapdragon Stadium EventsMoving forward, the future seems bright for this impressive location. Numerous bands and singers have recently scheduled concerts, which will only increase as the stadium matures. Other events, such as Monster Jam and similar traveling exhibitions, will also pass through its gates in the coming months.In years to come, the stadium will begin holding world-class competitions. In summer 2023, Snapdragon — alongside USD’s Torero Stadium and the SDSU Sport Deck — plans to host the Lacrosse World Series, featuring national teams from some 30 countries. I already have my tickets, so get yours soon.The stadium is currently vying to host the 2031 Men’s Rugby World Cup and 2033 Women’s Rugby World Cup, likewise featuring dozens of international teams. While not yet definite, such attention demonstrates the capabilities and prestige of this new location. In the future, it could put on any number of competitions and become a centerpiece for San Diego sports.Stadium Concessions Snapdragon offers a surprising variety of food whose quality parallels (or surpasses) that found at Petco Park, Pechanga Arena, or Torero Stadium. Fans can find the standards, such as pretzels, hot dogs, and nachos at Stadium Eats locations spread throughout the park. Seats inside the bowl are very narrow, so I suggest eating outside of the seating bowl. All concourses have open areas with tables, some even with shaded regions, for dining and drinking. Take advantage of these before moving back to the seats.In addition, multiple bars scattered throughout the place deliver plenty of liquid refreshment. Of special note: Two complete bars — which also had plenty of standing room from which to view the games — nestle into the opposite corners of the upper concourse. I also rather liked the Locals Only stands, which sell only San Diego-brewed beverages.Nearby DiningMore adventurous eaters can seek out a plethora of good food options from local eateries around the county. Despite offering shorter menus, the quality remains second to none. Specifically, the Crack Shack provides chicken sandwiches, and Cali BBQ — my personal recommendation on this list — has some delicious barbecue meats and tasty picnic sides. The Taco Stand sells some of the best, quick tacos in the county, while Sandbar’s fish tacos stand out. For those in more of a classic mood, Hodad’s burgers, Gaglione Brothers steak sandwiches, Tarantino sausages, and Best Pizza & Brewing all offer their specialties. Finally, diners can’t beat Batch and Box for excellent deserts, or EverBowl for chilled acai treats after all that greasy goodness. Spaces accommodate food trucks from San Diego, too, which rounds out the lineup of food options. These will rotate throughout the season and generate much-needed novelty throughout the seasons.Grass-covered berms encircle the stadium, perfect for family picnics in the afternoons, or groups can always tailgate.Getting To Snapdragon StadiumAs the stadium sits in the center of Mission Valley, fans can easily reach it via several freeways. These include the 8, 163, and 15, while Friars Road connects directly with the site. Multiple parking lots exist at present with varying price tiers on land previously used by Qualcomm for its lots. However, this should change as other buildings and parking garages rise on that land. Just like at Qualcomm, visitors can face traffic jams entering and leaving, so, if at all possible, avoid driving.Instead, take the Trolley, by far the easiest travel option. San Diego’s green line has a station less than 100 yards from the entrance gate and charges $2.50 for each one-way trip. Riders activate tickets at trolley entrances, and validation lasts for two hours. North County residents can take the blue line from UTC and transfer at Old Town. East County fans can ride the green line from Santee or the orange line from El Cajon. While those downtown or in South County can ride the green or blue lines from those locations, respectively. Trains run every fifteen minutes — more frequently just before and after games — and make getting to games so much simpler. Don’t forget that most stations outside downtown San Diego have installed free parking.Things To Do Near Snapdragon StadiumUnfortunately, very few other buildings stand near Snapdragon. This will change as San Diego State University expands its presence in Mission Valley, but that remains years in the future. For now, a couple of chain restaurants exist near the IKEA and Home Depot just west of the stadium.Alternatively, those taking the trolley can build in a dining or shopping experience prior to or after attending a game. Mission Valley supports multiple malls, including Hazard Center and Fashion Valley, for example, with easy parking options and convenient access to the green line. The blue line now begins at UTC, with all its restaurants, and the trolley passes through both Old Town and the Gaslamp District, giving even more potential for a full day out. Just make sure to factor in transit time when making these plans.A beautiful stadium worthy of such a beautiful area, Snapdragon Stadium has created an experience that rivals any venue I can remember, with easy access for anyone in the area. Its smaller size makes the entire place accessible, with great views throughout, and the quality and variety of concessions make it something of a destination. The pageantry on display, as with all major sporting and entertainment events, is stellar, and I cannot recommend this spot highly enough.The post Snapdragon Stadium: Everything You Need To Know appeared first on San Diego Explorer.
Ultimate Guide To Hillcrest San Diego
It is my personal honor today to be writing about my favorite neighborhood in all of San Diego, Hillcrest. This area is where I call home when I’m in the city. Hillcrest is rich with activity, small businesses, and a whole lot of people who are exactly who they want to be. It’s home to San Diego’s LGBTQIA+ community, the epicenter of pride in oneself and the expression of that self. I adore hanging out here because it feels safe and comfortable, I am surrounded by my own community. If you’re part of this community and you’re visiting, please let me tell you all about the vintage shops, restaurants, and events!Foreword:For my own conscience, as a member of both the LGBTQIA+ and BIPOC community with this opportunity to talk about this area, I find it necessary to say this before I move forward. Hillcrest San Diego is a safe space for the minorities who live and visit San Diego. It is NOT a destination for people to gawk at people or their ways of life. Hillcrest is a neighborhood filled with love, acceptance, and the inherent desire to be exactly who you are with no apologies. So respect pronouns, respect people. We are not a spectacle. We are just people. Bigots are not welcome here. If you want to learn more about the history of the LGBTQ+ community in Hillcrest, you can take this tour to show you around my favorite San Diego neighborhood>> Top Things To Do in Hillcrest San DiegoHillcrest Farmers MarketLocation: 3960 Normal Street #3960, San Diego, CA, 92103, USAHours: Sundays 9am to 2pmPhone: +1 (619) 29-3330 WebsiteEvery week an outdoor farmers market is held on Normal street. For the entire morning and part of the afternoon, the road is filled with vendors and people. Local artisans set up their booths to subtly boast about their amazingly grown and crafted items. This is San Diego’s original and largest market filled with over 175 vendors and 10,000+ visitors each week. This is my favorite farmers market because of the welcoming feeling that comes with just being in this neighborhood. You’ll find local LGBTQIA+ and BIPOC vendors and visitors, making it all the more comfortable for those in the community who want to visit. I definitely recommend going for a visit. Please take your time to look around and even talk with some of the vendors, I’m certain that they’re exceptionally proud of their booth. For more farmers markets check out this San Diego Farmers Market Guide. Balboa ParkHours: 24/7Phone: +1 (619) 239-0512In this lovely neighborhood, there is a 1,200-acre park filled with the historic urban culture of San Diego. It interestingly mixes Spanish colonial Revival, Mission Revival, and Pueblo Revival architecture. Everywhere around you’ll see the diverse buildings and businesses littering the beautiful park. Check out this fun tour that will show you all the history and hidden gems of Balboa Park>>All year round there are events that take place to commemorate the time of year. In the winter time, there will be December Nights but more on that later. In the fall, there are haunted trails for those of you who are brave enough to go through it. Throughout the rest of the year, there are marathons and fundraisers for several different charities and causes. This is the perfect location for all of these events and so many more. Balboa Park San DiegoYou can explore the museums, the shops, the restaurants, and the natural world around you. I personally enjoy having a picnic on a nice cool day or sketching out a few pieces of the surrounding nature while either listening to a podcast or just the sounds of the world. It’s a lovely place to relax or explore and one of the best things to do in Hillcrest San Diego! If you’re not sure where to start, I suggest checking out some of the tours they offer on their website or starting with the museums! Oh the museums are so lovely and they cover so many different niches from art to science. It would definitely not be a waste if you spent your entire day here. San Diego ZooLocation: 2920 Zoo Drive, San Diego, CA, 92101, USAHours: Mon-Sun 9am to 5pmPhone: +1 (619) 231-1515Tickets: $50 to $212San Diego Zoo EntranceIf you like animals, wildlife, and/or conservation, then the San Diego Zoo might just be the place for you! This family-friendly park is filled with endangered animals and plants in the effort to preserve the species. The zoo is built into a deep valley, almost like a bowl, so the trails deep in the zoo are perfect for hikers. There are accessible trails and a sky tram for those who can’t manage those steep hills, allowing everyone to still see the full zoo. Beauty and education run through the very veins of the zoo; each plant is labeled just like any of the animals around. You can also learn through the shows and tours they offer as well. The zoo is considered a non-profit organization, as all profits go back to keeping the land and taking care of the animals. While the price is definitely on the high side, it’s worth it to see and give back to the spectacular animals and plants. Give it a visit in your free time; there are stroller rentals available, which makes visiting with the kids easy. Book your San Diego Zoo tickets here. 7 Bridges HikeIf hiking throughout the mountains isn’t your thing, might I suggest the 7 Bridges Hike? This trail is considered an “urban hiking trail” that runs through the lovely neighborhoods of San Diego. It is a 5.5 mile loop that will take you through Hillcrest, North Park, Balboa Park, Banker’s Hill and so much more. What I like about this hike is that it’s easily accessible for wheelchairs, bikes, and strollers. If you want to take a break at all there are plenty of rest stops throughout the hike like coffee shops and other eateries, really whatever suits your palate. I personally like listening to a podcast as I leisurely stroll through the hike. Vintage ShopsWhenever I spend the day in the Hillcrest area, I visit the vintage shops around. They’re all small businesses and usually either LGBTQIA+ and/or BIPOC owned. Each shop has its own personality and style. They’re small and personal with stuff from every era. I adore visiting Blue Stocking Books; it’s where I can find whatever book I’m looking for at the time. I can’t tell you how many times they’ve had a book I’ve been looking for. Goodness and Flashbacks has retro styles in almost every size available. You can find these vintage shops on most streets in the neighborhood. It makes for a fun day of hunting for niche things or just browsing in general. Best Restaurants in Hillcrest San DiegoUrban Mo’sLocation: 308 University Ave, Sandiego, CA, 92103, USAHours: Mon-Fri 10am to 10pm; Sat-Sun 9am to 11pmPhone: +1 (619) 491-0400 WebsiteThis spot is known for their amazing atmosphere and friendly workers. Urban Mo’s Bar & Grill has been around for over 40 years, the owners being extremely active members of the LGBTQIA+ community themselves. The food is like anything you’d find in a burger joint but it all tastes 50x better. They are a great contribution to the safe space that is Hillcrest San Diego. Bronx PizzaLocation: 111 Washington Street, San Diego, CA, 92103, USAHours: Tues-Thurs,Sun 11am to 9pm; Sat 11am to 10pm; Mon 5pm to 9pmPhone: +1 (619) 291-3341 WebsiteIf you’re in the mood for a no nonsense cash-only spot, this might just be the place for you. There have been many days where I’ve gone to Bronx Pizza for dinner on late nights. The menu is really straightforward and each item is $21 or less depending on what you get. It’s a friendly atmosphere with people who like a no-frills no-nonsense pizza joint. Sister’s PizzaLocation: 3603 4th Avenue, San Diego, CA, 92103, USAHours: Fri-Sat 11am to 10pm; Mon-Tues, Wed-Thurs 11am to 9pmPhone: +1 (619) 225-4200 WebsiteI adore this community-focused pizza spot. It was opened in honor of the owner’s older sister, even including all of her favorite things on the menu as well as a variety of pizza and Mediterranean meals. The plates are beautiful, the employees are friendly, and the atmosphere is incredibly bright. Hash HouseLocation: 3628 5th Avenue, San Diego, CA, 92103, USAHours: Sun-Fri 7:30am to 2pm; Sat 7:30am to 3pmPhone: +1 (619) 298-4646 WebsiteThis is a neat spot where they make twisted-up versions of farm foods served with amazing crafted cocktails. Hash House is an interesting chain where they elevate the flavors of the Midwest. Visitors rave about the neat atmosphere and friendly employees. They pride themselves on becoming part of the community and strive to make it better with every day they’re open. There is usually a wait, but it is worth it. Oh, and the portions are humongous!Crest CafeLocation: 425 Robinson Avenue, San Diego, CA, 92103, USAHours: Mon-Fri 7am to 10pmPhone: +1 (619) 295-2510 WebsiteA sweet late-night diner awaits you on Robinson Avenue. Their comfy cozy American food will put a warm feeling in your stomach. The owner is super responsive to any and every type of review from customers. Diners rave about the amazing food and wonderful service. While it’s called a late night diner, they serve up some pretty unique specialized items so your taste buds always have something to look forward to. Dumplings N MoreLocation: 3865 5th Avenue, San Diego, CA, 92103, USAHours: Wed-Thurs, Mon 11am to 3pm; 4pm to 8:30pm; Fri-Sun 11am to 8:30pmPhone: +1 (619) 738-8539If you’re ever in the mood for nice authentic Chinese food, I recommend going to this rad spot. Everyone who works there is nice, the atmosphere is casual and calm, and dang the food is absolutely amazing! If you’re into spicy noodles, I suggest you order the Dan Dan Noodles or you could order a variety of their mouthwatering dumplings. But really, you can’t go wrong with anything here. Extraordinary DessertsLocation: 2870 4th Avenue, San Diego, CA, 92103, USAHours: Mon-Tours 9am to 8:30pm; Fri 9am to 9pm; Sat 10am to 9pm; Sun 10am to 8:30pmPhone: +1 (619) 294-2132WebsiteAfter any meal, if your tummy has any room, dessert usually sounds fantastic. What better way to eat dessert than doing it extravagantly? At Extraordinary Desserts, you’ll be able to indulge in a variety of sweet treats. Not only are the desserts delicious, they’re gorgeous too!Baja Betty’sLocation: 1421 University Avenue, San Diego, CA, 92103, USAHours: Mon-Fri 12pm to 9pm; Sat-Sun 10am to 9pmPhone: +1 (619) 269-8510 WebsiteIn Pride Square, there is a hopping Mexican restaurant who serves up spectacular margaritas. They openly celebrate the LGBTQIA+ community, putting on drag shows, participating in Pride, and being just outwardly celebratory. Many young people have come out in this restaurant and I’m sure there will be more to come.Common StockLocation: 3805 5th Avenue, San Diego, CA, 92103, USAHours: Sun-Wed 11:30am to 9pm; Thurs-Sat 11:30am to 10pmPhone: +1 (619) 310-5298 WebsiteWith a straightforward menu and a neat atmosphere, Common Stock is certainly a place to put on your wishlist for restaurants to go to on your stay. It’s recently been rated the best Chicken Sandwich place in San Diego and they most definitely serve it in style. It gives you a nice friendly warm feel with delicious food to match.Hillcrest NightlifeThe RailLocation: 3796 5th Avenue, San Diego, CA, 92103, USAHours: Thurs-Sun 11am to 2am; Mon 4pm to 10pmPhone: +1 (619) 298-2233 WebsiteOriginally opened in the 1930’s, The Rail is considered San Diego’s first gay bar. This historic spot offers the community a relaxing lounge-style feel. It upsets the stereotypical gay bar that the media has gotten used to. The Rail has been family owned and operated for over 55 years. Definitely think about giving it a visit.Number One Fifth AvenueLocation: 3845 5th Avenue, San Diego, CA, 92103, USAHours: Mon-Fri 12pm to 10pmPhone: +1 (619) 299-1911 WebsiteIf you’re one for a more easy going atmosphere, then Number One Fifth Avenue might just be the place for you. This is where diversity is welcomed and friendship is super easy. Number One is a safe space like many of the other establishments in the neighborhood. It is highly suggested to go here for a fun night and a welcoming vibe. AlibiLocation: 1403 University Avenue, San Diego, CA, 92103, USAHours: Mon-Sun 6am to 10pmPhone: +1 (619) 295-0881 WebsiteFor the crowd into the funky jukebox bar vibe, Alibi is for you. It is a friendly bar with a nice crew who serve up some killer cocktails. There’s also a really sweet board nearby that allows people to write down aspirations and dreams. But please keep in mind that this is a cash-only bar so maybe visit an ATM beforehand.Nunu’sLocation: 3537 5th Avenue, San Diego, CA, 92103Hours: Mon-thurs 2pm to 2am; Fri 11am to 2am; Sat-Sun 9am to 2amPhone: +1 (619) 295-2878 WebsiteThis retro spot is perfect for vibing with an inexpensive delicious cocktail and some righteous American bar bites. Everyone is very friendly and regulars are definitely regulars for a reason. I recommend this spot for those who want a chill atmosphere to drink and have fun in. Gossip GrillLocation: 1220 University Avenue, San Diego, CA, 92103Hours: Mon-Tues 2pm to 8pm; Wed-Thurs 2pm to 10pm; Fri 2pm to 11pm; Sat 10am to 11pm; Sun 10am to 8pmPhone: +1 (619) 260-8023 WebsiteAn awesome LGBTQIA+ friendly joint where quirky cocktails and comfort food is served. Gossip Grill embraces the femme in the world, decorating the venue with a vibrant femme aesthetic. It’s a great spot for parties and get togethers. Best Hotels in Hillcrest San DiegoInn at the ParkLocation: 525 Spruce Street, San Diego, CA, 92103, USAPhone: +1 (619) 291-0999WebsiteThis lovely 3-star resort is located on Balboa Park, close to all of the San Diego points of interest in the Downtown San Diego/Hillcrest area. They’re within walking distance which is such a bonus. Inside the hotel, the rooms are spacious with enough space for a good kitchenette and roomy sleeping areas. There are also accessible rooms so everyone has the chance to stay at this beautifully built downtown inn. Check for prices here>>Hillcrest House Bed & BreakfastLocation: 3845 Front Street, San Diego, CA, 92103, USAPhone: +1 (619) 990-2441 Website In a quiet, secluded neighborhood there is a relaxing and romantic bed and breakfast. This is a really lovely spot for couples and solo travelers who want to have a sweet stay in Hillcrest San Diego. If you want to know what’s happening in town or just want to know where to start your exploration, the employees have all the details you could want. With amazing cleanliness and sanitation along with stellar services and amenities, this is definitely a must in your hotel considerations. Check for prices here>>Hillcrest EventsPrideLocation: from Hillcrest Pride Flag to Quince Dr When: July 12-17, 2023Pride. This is the event for the entire LGBTQIA+ community. Pride Parade is where you can be whoever you are without apologies as long as you aren’t hurting anyone. Every year, San Diego hosts a parade and a festival for Pride. In all of its years, San Diego has raised the most funds for community outreach out of all of the Prides hosted in the country. This spectacular event screams to the world that members of the LGBTQIA+ community will be safe, always. If you’re a member of the community or a strong ally of it, you should attend and show your support! There’s no doubt this is one of the best things to do in Hillcrest San Diego.December NightsLocation: Balboa ParkWhen: December San Diego December Nights Balboa ParkEvery year, there is a lovely festival to celebrate the longest night of the year and the coming of the New Year. There are vendors for food, art, crafts, and so much more! Museums are open for visitors and performances are diverse, each more beautiful than the last. It is an intense celebration of culture, arts, and education! Please, if you’re in town then check it out! The event is free and it’s so much fun. Read our full guide on December Nights here>>The Hillcrest neighborhood is a place to feel safe being who you are. There are dozens of LGBTQIA+ owned shops, restaurants, and hotels around. All you have to do is look them up. Don’t stop at this article. The post Ultimate Guide To Hillcrest San Diego appeared first on San Diego Explorer.
10 Ways to Get Fit in San Diego – Make Your New Years Resolution Stick
Happy 2023! Time for the yearly “Let’s get in shape. This time for real!” game. Ready to play? Seriously, though. I play this game every year too, so I am with you. is 2023 the year? Maybe with these ideas to get fit in San Diego, I will reach my fitness goals? How about you? What is your fitness goal for 2023?Go for a HikeThere are so many fantastic hiking trails for all levels in and around San Diego. The beautiful nature around you will distract you from the huffing and puffing and make it worth your while. For beginners, I recommend the Torrey Pines hiking trails. For a bit more advanced hikers, you could set yourself the goal to do the Mission Trails 5 Peak challenge. You might not get a medal anymore, but it is still an accomplishment. And for serious hikers, the next step up is the San Diego Six Pack of Peaks. Check out some local hiking groups on Facebook to find hiking buddies if you don’t want to hike alone. I personally love hiking and try to hit the trails as often as I can. For 2023, I am committed to the San Diego Six Packs of Peaks. Don’t they say if you write down your goals and announce it to the world, you are more likely to do it? Well, I will post updates on the blog about my hiking progress, so stay tuned!Find a Personal TrainerI don’t know why, but hiring a personal trainer works. Maybe it is the money you spend that gets you off the couch and into the gym, maybe it is the deep fear of them screaming at you at your next weigh-in? No, but in all seriousness. These experts know what they are doing and can help you reach your fitness goals more easily. If you feel some sticker shock on how much a personal training session costs, check out Groupon for deals. There are a lot of them, especially in the beginning of the year. Spend Time on the WaterWinter might not sound like the best season to get into watersports, but at least you don’t have to fight the crowds on the running and biking trails. How about kayaking or paddle boarding? Once you know what you are doing, you should be able to stay relatively dry. I love that San Diego offers so many spots for watersport newbies, such as Mission Bay or the San Diego Bay. Get a Fitness TrackerI got my fitness tracker a few years ago and it really made a difference for me. It makes me take Robby for an extra walk at night or, when I am really desperate, jog around the living room like a crazy person. But hey, every step counts, right? I decided on a Garmin watch (this one here). I love Apple watches, but since I switch between Android and Apple phones, I wanted one that works with both. I have had it for almost 3 years now and it still works great. Sign up for a Race You can probably find a race of some sort every week in San Diego, so there are no excuses! Nothing motivates more than signing up for a race and seeing the countdown to race day tick down. You don’t have to sign up for one of the San Diego Marathons just yet, but maybe a fun 5k? Explore New Running/Biking Routes A change of scenery can be really helpful. San Diego has fantastic running routes, trail running, and bike paths all over the county and for every level. Whether you want to go through the heart of downtown or enjoy a peaceful run/bike session in nature, you will find something that will distract you and make your workout session so much more enjoyable. Find a Fitness Buddy Studies have shown you are more likely to show up if you made a commitment to someone else, not just yourself. When you know your friend is waiting for you at the gym or trailhead, you can’t let them down. It is also nice to have someone who can give you a little pep talk when you hit a low point and celebrate your wins. If they have a bit more experience, you can also learn a lot from them along the way. It is also a lot less intimidating when you first go to unfamiliar places (the gym) or places you don’t know anyone (your first race). So go find yourself a training partner and get started!Find the Perfect GymI have to admit. I am not a gym rat. At least not anymore. I used to go a few times a week and met up with a personal trainer once a week, and that was one of the times I actually really saw results and felt fit. I did a few sessions of cardio and weightlifting a week, and it really made a difference. After a few months, I signed up for my first 5k ever. Then a 10k. Then I fell off the wagon and onto the couch. Funny how that happens… But this was actually the longest I have ever stuck with a fitness routine. Do you have any routines you stuck with longer than any other? Maybe we should go back to what worked before?!?Get a Dog or Volunteer at a Shelter A dog can be another “fitness buddy” that can help you be more active. If you don’t have a dog or don’t want to commit to caring for one, you can volunteer at a shelter and take one of the pups there for a run, hike, or gentle walk around the neighborhood. Just remember: A dog is not like that old treadmill that you can put in the corner or return when you don’t feel like it anymore. Find Your Zen with Yoga & MeditationWhen we plan to get fit, we often focus on the body and forget the mind. Meditation can help you reduce stress and stay focused during your workouts. By strengthening your mind, you will be better equipped when your workout is tough or not going as planned. I love the Headspace App. They have beginner and advanced courses for Meditation and also Fitness-specific meditations, such as walking meditations and more. Yoga is also a great way to get your body and mind in shape. During your practice, you strengthen your muscles, become more flexible, and learn to control your breathing. When you choose more vigorous forms of yoga, such as a fast Vinyasa or Hot Yoga, you can burn more than 500 calories per hour. No matter which way you choose to get fit in San Diego, the main key is to stick to it. It’s important that you try various things and find something you truly enjoy and like. The scale alone is usually not enough motivation. So get a plan in place now that will get you through the tough times. Feel free to share your fitness goals for 2023 and your plan to reach them in the comments. Get Fit in San Diego – Pin for Later:Last Updated on January 2, 2023 by sandiegoexplorerThe post 10 Ways to Get Fit in San Diego – Make Your New Years Resolution Stick appeared first on San Diego Explorer.
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