Make Canberra Your Urban Gym For A Weekend

Holidays and fitness can go hand in hand but we don't all have the time, means and let's be honest, commitment, to go hiking through the Himalayas or to a no speaking, barely eating meditation retreat, but squeezing in an urban escape with a bit of fitness and a bit of fun is definitely in our reach.

Canberra makes the perfect getaway if you're looking to take a break whilst keeping up your fitness goals, want to explore new sports or health food trends, or push yourself to new limits whilst still giving yourself a bit of a treat.

There are so many reasons why Canberra should be your next checkpoint; stunning trails, walks, brunch spots and scenic cycle paths, but here are ten to get you started:

The magical autumnal colours – the city comes alive with hues of red, gold, ochre and crimson making its parks, waterfronts, forests and mountains stunning places to walk, bike or run. The weather will also be on your side with mild days and cool nights.

Canberra's cafes – you can fuel up and slim down whilst eating an array of delicious and locally sourced brunch dishes. Our pick has to be Močan & Green Grout's Tripoli baked eggs with hummus, spiced radish and yogurt or  the poached egg on sweet potato and beetroot fritter with smoked salmon, spinach and horseradish cream at Little Brother @RedHill which has the best views in Canberra (and a vigorous walk up to the café to ignite the metabolism)

A visit to Jindii Eco Spa – for very special yoga in the surrounds of the Australian National Botanic Gardens. Whether you're a seasoned yoga bunny or just wanting to try something new, there is a class to suit everyone.  If you want to indulge yourself and re-energise your body why not try the Yanko Jindalee body treatment which involves aromatic native oils, a full body scrub and massage, and an uplifting facial to finish off.

Revamp your fitness wardrobe – head down to Canberra's shopping hots spots and splurge on trendy new workout clothes  or stock up on your favourite gear at Canberra's Outlet Centre which houses Bonds, Converse, Canterbury, Lonsdale, Puma, Sketchers and FILA.

A stay at Hotel Hotel - after a long day on your feet head to this ultra-comfortable and luxurious hotel and unwind in a deep bubble bath then sink into your white fluffy cloud-like bed and dream the night away. With a choice of stunning apartments and quirky rooms, and some of Canberra's favourite foodie destinations located in this -vertical village' you have everything you need at your fingertips.

A wine workout – after working your muscles have a go at working your palette in Canberra's stunning wine region.  With over 140 wineries, with more than 33 within half an hour's drive, you don't have far to go to meet the award winning winemakers who are passionate about sharing their wine and knowledge.

Swapping two legs for four – with a ride on horseback through beautiful and unique countryside property with Burnelee Excursions. Great for the inner thighs and easy on the eyes, this excursion suits people of all levels of fitness and riding experience.

Eat at Eighty Six - for fabulous and guilt free dining. With chefs who cater for a range of dietary requirements and who only work with the best and freshest ingredients you can be sure your body gets all the nutrients it needs whilst you're every craving is satisfied. We love the prawn and avocado ceviche with cumin flatbread.

Celebrate running at Canberra's 2015 running festival – whether you're new to the running game or a serious marathon runner this festival has events for everyone. Why not take the plunge and enter a race to try and get a new personal best?  Starting at 5km and meandering along the lakes, the courses are absolutely beautiful.

Get inspired at the 2015 DanceSport Australia National Championship – enjoy the best of ballroom dancing as Australia's best dancers take up the floor. It might give you that extra push towards taking up that barre class or giving salsa a go with a friend.