As the temperatures are slowly cooling down, stretch summer just a little longer by indulging in some nighttime yoga, Pilates and hula at Midtown Relax Park, until the end of September.
The annual free activities at Midtown Park continue again this season with a string of healthy alternatives for the body and soul. The most popular event is probably the nighttime yoga, which always fills up quickly, so arrive early and bring your mat and a towel. The sessions are especially relaxing with the moonlight as a backdrop and the cool autumn breeze – be warned, you may never want to set foot inside a studio again.
Another busy event is undoubtedly hula, a favourite in Japan, and surprisingly a great workout. Tone up to the sounds of soothing Hawaiian music, and learn some basic steps from professional hula dancers; beginners are welcome, and lei is optional. You can also try Pilates, which is a routine that helps build flexibility, muscle strength and endurance, while improving posture and relaxing those stiff shoulders.
There are also regular exercise sessions at Midtown Park, including weekend mornings featuring the ubiquitous “Rajio Taiso” (radio calisthenics), the warm-up group routine that is said to build energy levels, encourage good health, and improve group morale (so bring some friends, or look to make some new ones). This event comes with lectures about beauty and health; themes vary each session. If all that exercise isn’t your cup of tea, you can join the Park Reading group, where different authors read excerpts from their writings (Japanese only).
Yoga, Pilates and Hula at Midtown Relax Park
More information: www.tokyo-midtown.com/jp/event/feature2012/relax_park (Japanese only)
When: until September 29
Where: Tokyo Midtown Park (see map)
How much: Free
