Hi Marsha,
There are two gyms here right now in Cotacachi. The one I use has various weight machines which are a little older and well-used, but they are perfectly functional and cleaned regularly. It also has three ellipticals and a stationary bike. The owner offers zumba and step aerobics classes several times per week as well. I hear the other gym has some different equipment which is maybe a little newer, but I like the owner of Vital gym where I go and he’s very involved in helping his clients meet their goals.
There are a couple of places that offer yoga and a new martial arts studio has opened where the instructor also offers conditioning classes twice a week (which I also attend).
I don’t know of any hiking/walking groups, but there are plenty of people here who like to do both so I’m sure you could find others to go with you. There’s also a group of people who go horseback riding regularly.
That’s great that you plan to be proactive about learning Spanish. In my experience you’ll have a much richer experience here if you speak the language. As for lessons, it so happens that my husband David DeChambeau is a former Naval Spanish linguist and gives lessons here in Cotacachi. You can reach him at ddechambeau@yahoo.com if you’re interested.
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