SOPHIE OGBONDA-JARDINE
During Covid, months spent stuck in our homes stripped many of us of our desire to exercise. Now, returning back to normal is having the same effect for the opposite reason: we’re not quite used to this tempo. Here’s how to get back into a healthier routine with a combination of indoor and outdoor gyms, running routes and post-work pampering – right here in Canary Wharf.
Three storeys up, looking out across London’s skyline through Newfoundland’s floor-to-ceiling panoramic windows, a state-of-the-art gym offers residents health and wellbeing in abundance.
Technogym bikes and running machines. Free weights and resistance equipment. Two studios for group classes, including Yoga Flow, Fitness Pilates and spin sessions. All managed by Antidote, London’s leading nutrition, fitness and self-care practitioners.
Benefit from 1-to-1 personal training ‘fusing leading-edge scientific research and ancient wisdom’, delivered by experts in every field. Warm down with massage treatments and beauty therapy, available at both Newfoundland and nearby 10 George Street. Also coming to 10 George Street soon is Ultimate Performance, ‘the best personal training experience on the planet’.
And there’s more. This time outside – between the trees, by the quayside, among skyscrapers, even on the Terrace (yoga, anyone?) through Vertus Plus – where you’re in control of the pace.
In October 2021, Jubilee Park was awarded a Green Flag for setting green space standards. While in nearby Wood Wharf, Harbour Quay Gardens offer outdoor gym equipment to train your body, picnic spots on the lawn to rest your mind, and waterside views from a snaking boardwalk to give you moments of respite from the financial towers. From award-winning parks to city ‘beaches’ to the meandering Thames, find endless opportunity to boost your physical and mental health.
Regular runner training for your next 10k? Or social pit-stopper happiest when power-walking with friends? We’re confident you’ll enjoy one of our two favourite running trails in London…
1/ Riverside run
Running Canary Wharf is a unique experience. Starting beside Newfoundland, cross Westferry Road to join the winding Thames Path. You’ll see the City of London ahead, and Shard in the distance.
Follow the river past the Uber Boat by Thames Clippers stop towards Dundee Wharf. Venture as many kilometres as you can, passing historical wharves before looping back to the apartment complex via Ontario Way and the Museum of London Docklands.
The running route is also on the National Cycle Network. So get your bike from the bike store (there’s one in every building) and go peddling.
2/ Wharf wander
For some New York City-style exercise, start at One Canada Square, head through Cabot Square and down Cubitt Steps, lined by living walls.
Welcome to Middle Dock. Follow the curves of Mackenzie Walk, move along the vibrant bars with dockside views. You’ll be below skyscrapers, surrounded by international brands, weaving between city workers and day trippers, students and international visitors.
You’ll soon come to the paths, fountains and sculptures of Jubilee Park. Spend time here. Stretch, sit and breathe deep away from the bustle. Or take on food and drink from a nearby food van.
Did you know there are big health benefits to living in a riverside city?
Water reduces stress levels, allowing your immune system to function at its fullest. On top of that, the plants and trees that thrive by water release healthy chemicals, increasing your infection-fighting blood cells. Also, our minds find a meditative state close to water, causing us to release dopamine – the feel-good hormone.
Make Vertus your home. Enquire today to find your apartment.