Photo by La Montgolfière
Welcome to our monthly series: MFCH Staff Favorites!
Every month, the members of the My French Country Home team will share a recommendation for their favorite thing in France right now.
The arrival of the new year nudges us to set intentions for the months ahead — often with a renewed focus on our health and well-being. Here in Paris, staying active doesn’t have to mean retreating indoors or sticking rigidly to a routine. The city invites movement, whether that’s climbing storied staircases, walking through lively neighborhoods, or discovering inspiring spaces dedicated to fitness and community.
In this spirit of wellness and fresh starts, we asked members of the My French Country Home team to share the places they turn to for exercise in and around Paris. From iconic bridges and hidden hills to welcoming studios and open-air sports, we hope these personal recommendations inspire you to keep moving — and perhaps to see Paris itself as part of your wellness ritual — the next time you’re in the city.
Stairs and Bridges
I have been a regular at gyms across different neighborhoods since arriving in Paris more than 25 years ago, but it wasn’t until the 2020 pandemic that I began to think of the city itself as a workout space. No longer a runner (knees!) I seek out staircases to get my heart rate up. One of my regular spots during Covid was the gilded stairs that lead from the Pont Alexandre III to the pedestrianized Berges de la Seine, complete with a stunning view of the Eiffel Tower. More challenging vertical climbs await in the picturesque back streets of Montmartre and Belleville, as well as the Buttes de Chaumont in the 19th arrondissement.
— Recommended by Nicola, MFCH Magazine Writer & Editor
While weight training in the gym is one of my favorite ways to exercise, I often like to opt for a walk up to Montmartre instead. The gentle incline along storied Parisian streets allows me to get my heart rate up and still feel part of the hustle and bustle outside. Weaving through the crowds in Pigalle, up to the vintage photobooth at 53 Rue des Trois Frères, and then further to the hill below the Sacre Coeur, is my favorite way to do it. Arriving at the grassy spot below the church feels like a good destination to catch my breath and people watch, especially on summer days. If time allows, I enjoy descending the hill and strolling through the Montmartre Cemetery, which offers a calm contrast to the lively neighborhood. If you’re lucky, you may run into the wild cats and other small animals who call the area home.
— Recommended by Jessy, MFCH Customer Service Coordinator
Gyms and Studios
Pilates Social Club is my favorite place for reformer Pilates in Paris! This English-speaking friendly studio features a bright, modern facility and motivating, personalized classes. Whether you’re visiting or living in the city, you can drop in for a single session or sign up for a weekly or monthly pass. Classes focus on strengthening, toning, and improving posture, all in a relaxed yet focused environment. The instructors are fantastic, making every session enjoyable. It’s perfect for keeping up your fitness routine while exploring Paris, and a must‑try for anyone looking for a boutique Pilates experience.
— Recommended by Sarah, MFCH Subscription Box & Boutique Manager
I recently signed up to a member’s gym in my neighborhood (Canal Saint Martin) and it’s not an overstatement to say it’s completely changed my life. La Montgolfière is housed in a former hot-air balloon workshop with a spectacular glass ceiling, it’s more than just a traditional gym. The lower level is dedicated to a coworking space and café, while on the upper floors you’ll find well-equipped weight rooms and a rotating schedule of exercise classes, from boxing to yoga and Pilates. A sauna, steam room and relaxation area complete this unique set up, making it a great place to work, workout and unwind, as you please. While memberships are aimed at locals, a day pass for those just visiting Paris can be purchased online or in person, allowing you access to all the spaces and classes on offer.
— Recommended by Maddy, MFCH Magazine Writer & Editor
Outdoors
Last summer, I decided to embrace my inner athlete and get back into sports. Living near Luxembourg Gardens, I’ve always been intrigued by the beautiful tennis courts tucked back in the middle of the park amongst the trees. It was surprisingly easy to reserve a court for an hour with the app Anybuddy and even easier to convince friends to join me! In August, I also participated in free pickup games of beach volleyball on the temporary courts set up outside of Hôtel de Ville for the annual “Paris Plages” — a citywide event that transforms city streets into beachy settings for a month. On the weekends, I hit the quais of the Seine where crowds gather for free Salsa and Swing dancing under the Pont Marie bridge in the Marais.
— Recommended by Olivia, MFCH Brand Strategist, Writer, & Editor
Since I don’t live in Paris, but in the countryside, my favorite ‘gym’ in Normandy is the forest behind our home. Guaranteed quiet and beauty, no need to pay a membership fee and no such thing as a rush hour. As a family, this forest has been one of our greatest luxuries since we lived here, tree houses have been built here, cross country circuits improvised with logs for jumping with our horses, long walks with friends, or Sunday afternoon strolls with the dogs to work off the Sunday lunch. I think I know every path, and every tree, and it’s changing color palette through the seasons is a constant source of inspiration.
— Recommended by Sharon, MFCH Founder & Editor-in-Chief
We hope this article has inspired you to program a fun exercise experience into your next Paris itinerary, or perhaps even seek out a similar exercise outlet in your own neighborhood!
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