Urban Evolution, Baltimore

The world is a playground, according to the stunt artists and gymnasts who helm Urban Evolution. At this CNN- and Channel 11 WBAL -featured gym, there are no treadmills or stationary bikes. Instead, dance-like movements and acrobatic leaps propel visitors toward apexes of fun and fitness. To ready physiques for such feats, ropes, trapezes, and gymnastics equipment facilitate body-weight exercises that build balance, flexibility, and coordination. Seasoned instructors oversee the training space, teaching students how to jump, climb, crawl, and tumble as safely as possible during movement-focused classes such as Parkour, Free Running, and Aerial Acrobatics. Kettlebells and other functional strength-training tools power UrbanFit conditioning workouts, which give participants the brawn to perform everyday tasks such as pushing lawnmowers, lifting grocery bags, and drawing sleighs filled with lazy reindeer.