Ah, glorious sunshine. It’s good to have you back. And it’s good to have back our motivation to get outside, and dare we say, get fit! Sydney has so many glorious parks, beaches and beautiful terrains that will work those buns into shape that it seems a shame to stay cooped up in the gym when the fresh air is calling your name.

Here’s the best places to get outdoors and train, tone or just clear your mind on a post-work jog.

The Beaches

Bondi Beach

Who doesn’t love a soft sand run. Ok so love is the wrong word, it’s pure torture, but you can feel it working its magic as muscles you never knew existed start to burn. Bondi Beach is about 1 kilometre long, which makes it easy to keep track of how far you’ve run.

Cronulla Sand Dunes

If you want to take soft sand running to the next level, then the Cronulla Sand Dunes are where you need to go. These mammoth dunes have a 45 degree incline that will leave your whole body shaking. But boy will you see the pay off.

The Parks

Centennial Park

You could never get bored running inside Centennial Park. There are so many different tracks to take and beautiful scenery to see among the 189 hectares of grassland. It hardly feels like working out.

Observatory Hill Park

It’s hard to believe you’re right beside the city up at Observatory Hill Park. While you stretch, take in those panoramic views of the Sydney Harbour and Sydney Harbour Bridge before focusing on the task ahead: working up a serious sweat. Observatory Hill Park is also an off-leash park so why not bring along your pooch for some extra motivation.

The Waterfront

Barangaroo Point Reserve

Feel like something new? Then run along Sydney’s newest harbour foreshore at Barangaroo Point Reserve. The stunning newcomer offer six hectares of greenery with paths that offer views of the one and only, Sydney harbour.

Bondi to Coogee Coastal Walk

If you’d rather swap the harbour for coastal views then nothing compares to the Bondi to Coogee Coastal Walk. Yes, you’re better off getting up bright and early to beat the crowds, but you’ll also beat the heat. Speed up the staircases, stop at the workout stations and grab your breath while you take in those amazing views along the entire way.

The Bay Run

Do you live in the inner west? Then The Bay Run is your go-to track. Run around the Iron Cove Bay from waterfront suburbs to suburb along the 7km loop around Rozelle, Lilyfield, Haberfield, Five Dock, Rodd Point and Russell Lea. It’s flat but it’s long, picturesque and a great place to monitor your progress. See how much time you can shave off your PB (that’s Personal Best) each time.

Manly to North Head

The eastern suburbs aren’t the only ones with a breathtaking coastal walk. The Manly to North Head run boasts sea and harbour views along its 10kms of running track from Manly Ferry Wharf to North Head, along North Head Scenic Drive.

Rushcutters Bay Park

Another great choice for dog lovers is Rushcutters Bay Park. It’s right on the bay and has a relaxed vibe about it. There’s also outdoor gym equipment if you want to pair your cardio with toning exercises.

The Weekend Run

Royal National Park Coast Track

If you can only make time for a solid run on the weekends, or want to workout while feeling like you’re getting out of the city, then the Royal National Park should be top of your list. The Coast Track there is a whopping 26km long for those who want a serious challenge. Don’t worry, you can easily just go as far as you want, or as far as your body can handle. The views of rugged coastlines, hidden beaches and the fresh air coming over the cliffs can’t be topped.