Exercise & Exploration of MKE
By Kiana Jones
Summer is fast approaching and if you want to stay in shape or even strive towards becoming more fit, there are plenty of ways to do so here in Milwaukee. Even better than that, you can discover the hidden gems of a Milwaukee summer while getting a good workout. Here are seven ways to simultaneously achieve your MKE bucket list and fitness goals.

Rent a Bublr Bike and go for a ride around the town
Going for a bike ride is always a fun way to work out, so why not combine that by riding around Milwaukee with the chance of stumbling upon some its amazing wonders? If you’re up for it, you can ride along one of many bike trails and take the scenic route. Alternatively, you can take your Bublr bike and ride around downtown giving you the chance to discover some new places and truly enjoy Milwaukee’s city life.
Hiking
Milwaukee offers many great hiking clubs with various travel destinations throughout the city. Don’t let the idea of having to join a hiking club limit you. Instead, come up with a list of places you’ve always wanted to visit in the city and walk there. There are plenty of cool trails to explore, so choose your destination and make it a goal to hike there and back. Make sure to pack some snacks and a water bottle to stay hydrated!
Kayaking
Veteran’s Park North offers rentals for many fun water activities. They lend out anything from pedal boats and kayaks to paddleboards and canoes. If you would prefer being on the water this summer, this is definitely the best opportunity to do so. The rental period begins in late April, just in time for sunshine and the end of the semester.
Canopied Biking
If being out on the water is not for you, try riding a canopied bike around with friends or family. Whether you have 2 people or 9 people in your group, Veteran’s Park North offers bikes to accompany your group size. Canopied bikes can be hard to steer, but once everyone gets in the rhythm the ride will be a breeze.
Run a 5k
Milwaukee offers many great opportunities to sign up for 5k races, whether you want to do one for fun or if you’d like to push yourself, there is a run for you! On the even brighter side, there’s a lot of runs for amazing causes so you’d get the chance to show your support, be active, and appreciate Milwaukee a little more.
Join a beach volleyball league
In the summer, Bradford Beach offers registration for beach volleyball. If you like being on a team or even like the competitive aspect of sports, beach volleyball may be the perfect activity for you. Think about it, you’ll be at the beach doing something you enjoy surrounded by the camaraderie of others. You’ll probably have so much fun that you’ll forget that you’re even working out.
Visit Devil’s Lake
Though this is not in Milwaukee, Devil’s Lake is a place everyone should visit at least once while in Wisconsin. When you arrive, you are free to explore and enjoy the natural scenery and truly live in the moment. If you’re seeking more to do while there, try rock climbing. This can be difficult and extremely frightening, but there’s always a chance to try rock climbing indoors at Adventure Rock before diving into the challenge at Devil’s Lake.
Remember that exercise is what you make it. It does not have to be running on a treadmill for hours in a gym. Let MKE be your gym, so why not enjoy the view while doing so? I encourage you all to make an MKE bucket list and spend some time with friends, family, or even your pets exploring Milwaukee and what it has to offer.
Follow us on social media!
Facebook: @MUMEDICALCLINIC
Twitter: @MU_MedClinic
Instagram: @MU_WELLNESSPEERS
Email: wellnesspeers@mu.edu
Sources:
https://wheelfunrentals.com/wi/milwaukee/veterans-park-south/rentals/
http://bradfordbeachmke.com/leagues.html
https://onmilwaukee.com/living/articles/milwaukeesummer.html