Condo Market: Enjoy an Active Lifestyle in a New Condo

By NextHome Staff
April 17, 2018
Nowadays, fitness is more than a craze; it is a way of life for people of all ages. If you are shopping for a new condominium and fitness is an important part of your lifestyle, congratulations! You could not make a better choice. Condos encourage active living by both location and design. Ontario’s Places to Grow Act has dictated that condo developers build “up” rather than “out” and locate buildings close to public transportation and amenities. This translates to residents walking to local shops and services, and walking is the first level of fitness. Bicycling is next, and in the City of Toronto, condos are required to contain a certain number of bicycle parking spots. Both residents and visitors can burn off calories pedaling around to run errands or meet for coffee.
Lumina at Emerald City
New condominiums themselves are graced with a beautiful variety of amenities that accommodate exercise without having to leave the building. For example, fitness facilities typically rank high on condo shoppers’ must have lists. In addition to the convenience of having exercise facilities under their roofs, these suite-owners can say good-bye to gym membership fees. Today’s state-of-the-art fitness rooms have high ceilings, massive windows and elaborate equipment. Some even enable team sports in a gymnasium, and many have Pilates/yoga areas or even climbing walls.Modern condo fitness facilities rival the nicest of commercial clubs with change rooms, saunas, steam rooms, whirlpools, plunge pools and/or swimming pools to vary the experience. You will even find rooftop pools and sundecks with outstanding views. These areas are so popular that some condominium corporations are hiring recreational coordinators to organize classes and events. With these areas decorated to reflect the architectural aesthetics of the building, they are great spots for residents and their families and friends to use for get-togethers.Recreation does not necessarily end at a condo’s traditional fitness facilities. The trend toward condo gardening is catching on, and people love it. We are seeing more urban condominiums that provide residents with gardening plots so they can grow their own herbs and vegetables, which gives new meaning to the concept of “eating close to home.” With gardening being one of North America’s favourite pastimes and the practice burning off calories, it’s a win-win situation. Fresh herbs and veggies always liven up a meal, and being able to access the exact amount you need without leaving “home” is incredible. And keep in mind that a condo suite with a balcony opens the door to container gardening right outside of your private living space. The variety of containers available today is exciting. They can be used to grow flowers, herbs, tomatoes and whatever else you can imagine. Unless you plan on growing giant pumpkins, gardening is no longer the exclusive pastime for people in low-rise homes with backyards!Whether you prefer a brisk walk, a vigorous weight workout, an energetic aerobics class, a feel-good yoga session, basketball game, swim or some green-thumb bending and stretching, in a condominium, the fulfillment of your exercise needs is at your fingertips. GO CONDO!BARBARA LAWLOR is president and CEO of Baker Real Estate Incorporated and an in-demand columnist and speaker. A member of the Baker team since 1993, she oversees the marketing and sales of condominium developments in the GTA and overseas. Keep current with The Baker Blog at blog.bakerrealestate.com

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