Have you ever been to the theme parks and just feel… bleh after eating a corn dog and fries? Or are you preparing for your next half marathon, and don’t want to fall behind on training while you’re on vacation? Or are you like me, and just want to earn extra steps when you’re out and about?
Below are some ways to get your steps in and burn off some extra calories!
Parking Areas
A special note about the parking areas before we get started. While it may be tempting to walk or run up and down the aisles, please do not do this! Drivers in the parking lots are generally not paying attention. In addition, you may end up distracting Resort Transportation & Parking Cast Members from doing their jobs. Please be safe!
Toy Story Parking Lot
The best way to get a head-start on your steps is to walk from the Toy Story Parking Lot to the Disneyland Resort. There are a number of paths you can take!
The first route, marked in red, takes you straight to the Esplanade at the Disneyland Resort. It is the most direct route and takes about 15-20 min. Be prepared to use a couple crosswalks. This route also has a lot of foot traffic from neighboring hotels.
The second route, marked in blue, is a bit more of a roundabout pathway. It takes you to the Downtown Disney security entrance and takes about 20-30 min. This path also has several crosswalks, but is generally less crowded. It also allows you to check out the stores in Downtown Disney on your way to the parks.
Mickey & Friends and Pixar Pals Parking Structure
Walking from the Mickey & Friends and Pixar Pals Parking Structure is much more straightforward. As of date, work is being done to construct a pedestrian bridge from the second floor of Pixar Pals that roughly follows the route below, in red. For now, since it is still an active construction area, should you choose to walk, please follow signs and ask a Cast Member for directions.
Downtown Disney
Downtown Disney is a fun place to get your exercise on. There’s lots to look at – whether it be the atmosphere entertainment, fellow Guests, or the colorful shop windows. As always, as you walk through Downtown Disney, be mindful of others and do not run!
For the purposes of this fitness circuit, I’ve divided up Downtown Disney into 3 zones, as shown on the map below.
Let’s start with the red zone. This area features a few small shops and restaurants, as well as the Monorail station. We’re going to head over to the lower left area of the red zone, in the wide concrete area. In front of Rinse Bath & Body Co., you’ll find some curbs on the edge of the sidewalk. Stop here, and do step-ups. Make sure to alternate feet!
After step-ups, head over to the security entrance and enter Downtown Disney.
Near the Lego store, under the Monorail tracks, you’ll find large Lego sculptures of Disney characters. They are surrounded by railings. Grab a spot on the railing and do some push-ups! Just be mindful of others who may be taking pictures of their families.
Let’s move on to the yellow zone!
Between Splitsville and Tortilla Jo’s you’ll find a wide area perfect for getting some exercises done. Start with side-step squats across the back of the pathway, both directions! Then, lunge from the back wall to the green fountain. If you’re feeling ambitious, add in a game of bowling at Splitsville!
Let’s head on over to the blue zone!
There are a series of fountains between tram loading and the World of Disney. At one of the fountains, take a seat and do bench dips. When you’re done, head on over to the picnic area, the circular area at the top of the blue zone. Time for more step-ups! Grab a spot on the curb and alternate feet.
Finish Line
Congratulations! You did it! Now go enjoy some beignets or a Dole Whip at the Disneyland Hotel.
For more challenges, check out my other fitness circuits:
Disneyland Resort Fitness Circuit – Disneyland Park
