Your Guide to Lifestyle & Wellness in Central Oregon Plug In, Get Active, Feel at Home in Bend
Why Mentorship Matters for New Real Estate Agents
How to Get Active and Plug Into the Community in Bend, Oregon
Hey there! Welcome back to the Suzanne and Sarah Blog – your go-to guide for all things Bend and Central Oregon. I’m Sarah Willis, and today we’re diving into something that hits close to home: how to stay active, feel connected, and really make Bend feel like your town.
Whether you're brand new to the area or just trying to get back into a healthy rhythm, we’re breaking down some of the best ways to engage your body, boost your mental game, and meet your people through sports leagues, classes, and outdoor experiences in Central Oregon.
Let’s get into it!
1. Join a Local Sports League
Want to move your body, meet great people, and keep things fun? Local adult sports leagues are one of the easiest and most rewarding ways to jump in.
Your best resource? Bend Parks and Rec. Even private companies advertise their leagues through them because of their broad reach and trusted community presence.
Think options like:
Co-ed soccer
Volleyball
Basketball
Kickball
Baseball (and hey – if there’s not a league for your favorite sport, maybe it’s time to start one!)
Some leagues are laid-back and recreational, others are a bit more competitive – so there's something for every vibe and skill level.
2. Try a Fitness Class That Fits Your Flow
Not big into team sports? No problem. Bend has a thriving fitness scene with classes and gyms for every kind of workout enthusiast.
Here are some local favorites:
Orange Theory (Sarah’s pick!)
Hotworx
Snap Fitness
Excel Fitness
Northwest BOD (Suzanne’s spot!)
Base Camp Studio
Looking for something more boutique or specialized? You’ll find tons of yoga, Pilates, barre, and trending fitness classes all over town. Just a quick Google search will point you in the right direction.
3. Get Outside – It’s Why We’re All Here
Let’s be honest – outdoor wellness is kind of the whole reason people fall in love with Central Oregon. And we get it. Whether it’s hiking, mountain biking, trail running, or climbing, the landscape here is your playground.
Want to explore with a group? Check out:
Meetup.com for local hiking and adventure groups
Source Weekly’s event listings
Local Facebook groups or community boards
Favorite spots to start?
Smith Rock
Shevlin Park
Deschutes River Trail
Don’t feel like you have to do it alone. There’s a whole community out here, and outdoor meetups are a fantastic way to find your people while soaking up sunshine and fresh air.
4. Sign Up for a Local Race or Event
Even if you're not a hardcore athlete, there are fun events year-round to keep you moving and engaged.
Some community faves include:
Cascade Lakes Relay
Bend Marathon
The Pole Pedal Paddle (PPP) – a wild and fun multi-sport event
Turkey Trot
I Like Pi Run 🍰
You’ll also find local running groups like CORK (Central Oregon Running Klub) or events hosted by FootZone. Many of these cater to all levels – from stroller joggers to seasoned marathoners.
5. Move Socially – Dance, Swim, or Groove
Sometimes, the best way to stay active is through something playful and social.
Here are a few ideas:
Dance classes (think Zumba, pole, barre, or ballroom)
Aqua fitness
Community movement classes at Larkspur and Juniper Community Centers
Low pressure, fun energy, and a great way to make friends fast. Whether you're dipping your toe into a new activity or rekindling an old hobby, these are all welcoming, community-centered options.
Your Permission Slip to Start (No, You Don’t Have to Wait for January)
This is your gentle nudge to start now. Don’t wait for a New Year’s resolution. Whether it's yoga, pickleball, or a running club – there’s no better time to jump in than today.
Staying active in Bend isn’t just about fitness – it’s about mental health, sunshine, community, and making this beautiful place feel like home.
Need Help Putting Down Roots?
If you’re falling in love with Central Oregon (like so many of us have) and you’re ready to put down roots, we’d love to help. We’re passionate about this place and the people who call it home.
Buying or selling in Bend? Reach out to us – our contact info is in the show notes, and we’d be honored to help you find your perfect spot here.