Ironbound Fitness

The Ironbound neighborhood of Newark is very well known for several reasons. It has a seemingly endless list of restaurants, bars, and lounges. It also is in close proximity to New York City, Jersey City, and Hoboken – with their own thriving nightlife scenes. It also is accessible through major highways and has several options for mass transportation. Newark is a commuter’s dream. Although it is working hard to shake off it’s stigmas, The City of Newark really does have plenty to offer. 

However, many people also don’t realize that the Ironbound is actually an amazing area for those that like to stay fit and active. A quick google search of “gyms in Ironbound, Newark” provides a lengthy list of Fitness centers, sports clubs, and martial arts studios.

Another few short blocks away you can also find Evolution Fitness (102 Monroe Street). Its another very popular gym that also offers classes and personal training and has amenities such as a supplement and nutrition shop, juice bar, and physical therapy. There is also a designated children’s area, that looks after and entertains children while their parents or guardians enjoy (or suffer through) their workout.

But there is plenty of other ways to stay fit and active in the Ironbound besides joining a gym. There are quite a few martial arts schools as well. You can find a dojo for a number of styles. International Taekwon-Do Academy (172 Ferry Street) offers classes for both children and adults (973-578-4441). Traditional Karate of Newark (109 Monroe street) also offers classes to children and adults and also has a kickboxing class on Mondays, Tuesdays Wednesdays and Fridays at 8:30 pm. They can be reached at 862-262-5380.

Besides Taekwondo and Karate, there are also a number of Jiu-Jitsu dojos in the neighborhood. Renzo Gracie’s Newark location is located at 172 McWorter St. (973-351-4064) and Team Jucao Newark Brazilian Jiu Jitsu is at 33 Merchant Street (973-573-9293).

So far, that sounds like a lot of fight classes and gyms. But The Ironbound is also home to the Sharpe James Recreation Center at 226 Rome Street that is complete with indoor pool. Reach them at 973-733-3707 to see what their seasonal offerings are. There are also 3 public parks: Independence Park, Riverbank Park, and The Passaic River Waterfront. If you’re avoiding the gym and the inevitable resolutioners, like me, come find me hitting the pavement. I’ll be the one huffing-and-puffing… but with a great playlist! Remember, exercising releases endorphins, and endorphins make you happy!

Shayla Castrelos is the founder of fashion and lifestyle blog, SundayShay.com. She works in New York City full time as a legal assistant as well as being in full-time pursuit of trends, restaurants, and nightlife. She has a degree in Journalism from Rutgers University Newark Campus. She is based out of Newark, where she currently resides.