There's a bolt of silk suspended from a 30 foot high, ceiling, tied into a small U, like a cradle. My instructor asks me to lean into it, so that it's holding my weight, and then twine my legs around the fabric, so that I'm secure. Then she asks me to lean back so that I now hanging upside down from the ceiling, hanging from silk.
"Ok," she says, "now do 15 situps. While upside down and hanging from the air."
Welcome to Cirque Fit, as taught at Esh Circus Arts. Esh is a school run by a group of professional acrobats, teaching others performance disciplines ranging from trapeze to handbalancing to aerial silks to contortion. Then there's Cirque Fit, which takes all of the general fitness and warm-up exercises that acrobats use and strings them together into a general fitness class that feels like part Pilates, part gymnastics and all kinds of fun.
I don't dream of joining the circus but I have a lot of fun at Cirque Fit. The instructors are great and rooted in a background of professional performance rather than just striving to be fit for its own sake. If you live in the area, you can sign up for groups of 8 weekly classes at a range of skill levels and disciplines. If you're just visiting, you can also opt to drop-in for a taster class. Check the website for more details.
Find your way with 128 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
Don’t miss Schlesinger Library on Harvard’s campus, a hidden gem in Boston, for an enriching experience of women’s works. Look for original manuscripts!
by
Union Park, located near downtown, was designed in the mid-19th century, inspired by English-style residential squares. Come for a tranquil retreat!
by
Sip of Joy, a cozy family-run café in South End, blends Turkish and American flavors, offering flawless coffee, pastries, and a peaceful retreat.
by
Arlington Street Church in Boston houses the world's largest themed collection of Tiffany stained glass windows — an unmistakeble artistic marvel.
by
The Harvard Museum of Natural History's Glass Flowers exhibit showcases 4,300 stunning glass plant models, crafted by the Blaschkas between 1887 and 1936.
by
Step into Boston’s Puppet Free Library on Newbury Street, where over 200 vibrant puppets await, spreading joy through lending since 1976.
by
Rouvalis Flowers in Beacon Hill charms every season with stunning blooms, dried arrangements, and gifts — perfect for adding beauty to any Boston day.
by
Cacao in Boston, run by a Dominican couple, offers rich hot chocolate, spicy cocoa, and delightful truffles — sweet haven for reading or writing.
by
Escape the rush at Zuzu’s Petals in Cambridge’s Inman Square — a cozy, screen-free haven for fondue, wine, conversation, and homemade delights.
by
Gypsy Place in Cambridge offers a bohemian vibe, fresh juices, vegan treats, and great coffee. Try the Azurite Bowl or Tiger’s Eye Truffles for a delicious energy boost!
by
Zinneken’s in Harvard Square serves authentic Liege waffles with indulgent toppings. Cozy vibes, rich coffee, and the perfect sweet treat near Harvard University!
by
Regina Pizzeria in Boston’s North End has served legendary pizza since 1926. The white pizza is a must-try! Expect a wait, but it’s worth every bite.
by
128 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
Escape the Crowd & Travel Slow 🐌
✓ 0 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
✓ 128 Insider Tips