Photograph by Allison Darling
For anyone looking to get a taste of the Queen City’s wellness scene, the Cincinnati Fitness Sampler is the place to be. Hosted by The Beauty Boost Cincinnati, a local branch of a national organization that designs events to empower women, this twice-annual sampler event has grown into a full-blown fitness festival, offering a dynamic mix of movement, mindfulness, and meaningful connection.
“The Cincinnati Fitness Sampler is our biggest event of the year,” says Paige Braley, owner of The Beauty Boost Cincinnati and the event’s lead coordinator. “It’s essentially a wellness festival. We have six back-to-back workouts and more than 100 experience stations, featuring anything from massages to hair braiding to meal prep and product sampling.”
The event began in 2018 with about 200 attendees. Now held at Summit Park, the May and September samplers welcome nearly 1,000 people each, transforming the park into a high-energy hub of fitness, wellness, and fun.
Participants can expect a flexible format. Pop into a workout, then wander into a breathwork class, grab a protein snack, or join a group sound bath to close out the day. “It is very flowy,” Braley says. “People can try as much or as little as they want, and there’s really something for everyone.”
Some highlights this year include Pahhni Alkaline Water, joining for the first time with a mobile hydration van, and national sponsors like Gatorade Zero, Muscle Milk, and Red Bull, which will be sampling its new sugar-free flavor. In between classes, participants can engage in social media challenges to win high-value raffle prizes, ranging from $500-1,000, courtesy of sponsor donations.
Braley says bringing more than 80 wellness brands and fitness studios together is possible thanks to ongoing relationships with like-minded local businesses. “We have year-long partnerships with brands in the city who align with our values,” she says. “We want to showcase businesses that our going to support women on their wellness journeys.”
While the workouts and perks are a big draw, the heart of the event is all about connection. “Our mission is to help women feel empowered, healthy, and beautiful,” Braley says. “Everyone needs a third space outside of home and work, and that’s what we’re trying to provide.”
Whether you’re a seasoned fitness professional or simply curious about wellness, Braley promises, “There really is something for everyone.”
The Cincinnati Fitness Sampler will take place on May 17 from 9 a.m. to noon. Tickets are required.
