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21 Aug 2025

Outdoor Wellness for All Ages at U/D

Looking to stay active and healthy in every season of life? University District (U/D) offers a range of outdoor wellness opportunities for all ages, from the splash pad for kids to fitness-friendly paths and scenic picnic spots. Whether you’re biking the 12km of pathways on the Green Spine or enjoying a relaxing day on the Bow River, U/D makes it easy and accessible to prioritize wellness in your everyday routine.

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Take a walk through one of our many greenspaces, including Central Commons Park, the North Dog Park, Northwest Commons Park and the Green Spine.

Move, Play and Explore: Wellness at Every Turn

With thoughtfully designed public spaces and trails, University District encourages movement, exploration and play, no matter your age. Whether you’re looking for a fun family outing, a fitness-friendly commute, or a leisurely walk to clear your mind, the community offers plenty of options to choose from.

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Gather your family and friends for a day at the Central Commons Park splash pad, where you’ll find chairs and benches to relax between water-filled fun.

Here are just a few ways to get moving in U/D:

  • Make a splash at Central Commons Park with the splash pad, a favourite community destination for families. Surrounded by lush green lawns, benches, BBQs and picnic spaces, it’s the perfect spot for kids to cool off, run around and enjoy the outdoors.
  • Enjoy Northwest Commons Park with our award-winning accessible playground for all abilities, a nearby dog run, greenspace and outdoor ping pong table (bring your own paddles!).
  • With a pedestrian-first design, U/D makes walking an accessible way to stay active.
    • Wide, well-maintained sidewalks make it easy to take a daily walk, meet neighbours, or explore with a coffee in hand on Retail Main Street.
    • Winding trails and green spaces between the North and South Ponds reveal new corners of the community each time you head out.
  • A feature of U/D’s layout, the Green Spine is a multi-use path that outlines the east edge of the neighbourhood.
    • Whether you’re running or walking, the Green Spine offers a scenic and safe trail route.
    • The path links residents to parks, retailers, and gathering spaces, making it both a practical and enjoyable part of residents’ daily routine.
    • With smooth surfaces and separation from traffic, it’s a great place for bikers of all skill levels, even little ones learning on two wheels.
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Let your family burn off some energy at Northwest Commons Park, where they can climb the monkey bars, swing high and enjoy the fresh air.

Wellness That Grows With You

At U/D, outdoor wellness isn’t one-size-fits-all. It’s thoughtfully designed to support healthy lifestyles at every stage of life, including seniors who call the community home. With accessible sidewalks, green spaces, and scenic resting spots it’s easy to embrace aging in place while staying active and connected to the outdoors.

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Our walkways are easily accessible and feature plenty of spots to sit, relax, and take a breather along the way.

Stormy Weather? Great Indoor Options Abound 

Calgary’s weather can be unpredictable, but your wellness routine doesn’t have to be. University District offers several indoor fitness options to help you stay active, no matter the time of day or forecast.

Here are a few local spots where residents and visitors can keep moving indoors:

  • Hot Yoga on University District: A heated environment that helps you stretch, sweat, and recharge with classes for all levels.
  • Lagree YYC: A low-impact workout that focuses on core strength, endurance, and balance using the Lagree method.
  • Orangetheory Fitness: A full-body workout that combines cardio and strength through high-intensity interval training.
  • YYC Cycle: An energizing spin class experience with motivating music and a strong sense of community.
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Find guidance and motivation at Orangetheory Fitness and other fitness studios along Retail Main Street.

New On The Block

Time to nourish your active lifestyle with U/D’s newest retailer, Heal Wellness, which offers acai bowls, superfood bowls, superfood smoothies, protein shakes, coffee and more.

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Stop by Heal Wellness before or after your workout for a nourishing smoothie or superfood bowl.

Float The Bow Near Home

Just steps away from U/D, Lazy Day Raft Rentals, located at the Calgary Curling Club, offers kayak and raft rentals for a peaceful day on the water. It’s a great way to unwind, stay active and take in the natural beauty that surrounds Northwest Calgary.

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