Nosy Neighbor: Can you take classes at Asphalt Green if you are not a member?

N. wrote to say that she loves her Zumba class with a teacher from Asphalt Green, which is usually held outside in the cold (“as long as there’s no ice and the wind chill is above about 24 degrees”) and heat (“about 90 degrees is our informal cutoff”), but I usually don’t feature commercial businesses that are not 1) free or 2) new or 3) run by Tribecans. HOWEVER! I had no idea you could take classes at Asphalt Green without being a member — so this is now my own nosy neighbor post.

Turns out they have a big range of classes (see the calendar here) that are really affordable by just about any NYC standard: a single class is $20; a five-pack is $85 and a 10-pack is $150. (The classes are free if you are a member.) You have to set up a Mindbody account to pay — but it’s easy and from what I can tell, if you click off all the boxes, you won’t get spammed. The fitness director was super helpful and would have helped me set up an account on the phone as well.

The offerings at a glance: Pilates (only the mat; the Reformer classes are $105 each with packages available), yoga, HIIT, circuit training, cardio dance, meditation. (Water exercise classes are only for members.) And of course Zumba, taught by Carlos Chavez.

Also, N. wrote, “the Zumba teacher is also a fantastic, interesting man — this AG writeup will give you a bit of an idea about him.”

Asphalt Green opened on North End Avenue in 2013 — and my pictures are from then as well!

 

8 Comments

  1. The outside classes in Rockefeller Park taught by Carlos aren’t under the Asphalt Green umbrella and are open to everyone for a $15 fee. The schedule is Wednesdays at 7:30 am and Saturdays and Sundays at 8 am. If you’re interested, contact him at carlosfitness.nyc@gmail.com for more details.

    Also, the water fitness classes at AG are open to non-members, at the same prices as the exercise classes (though you may have to buy a water exercise-specific class pack). In the schedule they are listed as “Gym Classes” type with the names of the classes Hydrofit (in the big, cooler pool), Warm Water Exercise (in the small, warmer pool) and on Mondays in the big pool, Aqua Zumba with Carlos as the teacher.

  2. I’d always been curious about Zumba – it looked like a great way to get a cardio workout while having fun dancing. Last year I took my first class with Carlos at Asphalt Green and I’ve since added the Rockefeller Park classes into my schedule. The classes are so much fun, a wonderful way to start the day and I’ve met the most welcoming and interesting group of people. I’m addicted!

  3. I had to stop years of yoga because of wrist arthritis and my doctor suggested doing more cardio. That’s when I discovered Zumba and Carlos’ expert teaching. He cues next steps with his hands (took me a few classes to figure out, until he said “watch my hands, not my feet!”). The outdoor classes are joyous; beautiful view of the river, trees and occasional passers-by that stop, watch and groove to the music. Check it out (but try a few classes to get the hang of it if you’re a novice like me.)

  4. I discovered Zumba with Carlos through as friend, and I have to say it was the best gift she ever gave to me. I’m not a morning person, but now I set may alarm clock early only to go to his classes, both in Asphalt Green and by the river. There is no better way to start the day, dancing with a great instructor and the most welcoming group. It has been life changing for me!

  5. Zumba changed my life! Dancing at the park, with the breeze, the trees, the Hudson river, the birds and, of course, with CARLOS CHAVEZ…Boommmm…!!!! Even with the cold, it doesn’t matter, it’s always worth it! Come, come, COMEEEE!

  6. I have been attending to Zumba classes with Carlos Chavez more than 3 years. He is a great teacher, fantastic dancer and caring individual.
    He teaches in AG during the week also at Rockefeller park during the weekend, including cold winter days which many of us love Zumba with Carlos keeps us healthy and makes us to be positive .

    Nothing like start a day with Carlos’ Zumba 😀🎶

  7. Zumba in the park at Battery Park—a total hidden gem! It is one of Battery Park’s best-kept secret!

    A fun and energizing way to kick off the weekend. With Carlos – great instructor, enjoyable music, amazing vibes, and a beautiful outdoor setting. It’s the perfect mix of fun, fitness, and fresh air.

  8. I tried many classes – yoga, boxing, stretch, etc. and like many of them. However, Zumba with Carlos is my favorite! Good music, a friendly group of students, and a great teacher! !

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