Fostering Community Wellness

Week 7 emphasizes balance, flexibility and overall wellness, giving participants the opportunity to strengthen both body and mind while embracing the vibrant spirit of a World-Famous Beach. 

While the theme is coastal-inspired, sessions will take place at the Riverfront Esplanade at the Rose Garden. Participants are encouraged to wear beachwear-inspired activewear and enjoy an uplifting fitness experience led by Renew Yoga.

• Theme: World-Famous Beach
• Attire: Beachwear-inspired Activewear (bring your own yoga mat)
• Location: Riverfront Esplanade Rose Garden, 255 S. Beach St.

celebrate our history

World-Famous Beach

Daytona Beach earned its title through speed, sunshine and a shoreline unlike any other. In the early 1900s, the beach’s hard-packed sand made it the ideal surface for land speed trials, drawing international competitors and launching a racing legacy that led to NASCAR’s founding in 1948 and the opening of the Daytona International Speedway in 1959.

But racing is only part of the story.

For generations, Daytona Beach has been known for its wide, drive-on shoreline, drawing families from across the country for affordable, accessible oceanfront recreation. The historic boardwalk and pier became gathering places for visitors seeking music, dancing and seaside entertainment, helping establish the city as one of Florida’s earliest tourism destinations.

The city also gained national attention as a spring break hotspot beginning in the 1960s, cementing its reputation as a youthful, energetic coastal destination. Over time, Daytona Beach evolved to balance that image with arts, culture and outdoor recreation.

Its oceanfront Bandshell, riverfront parks and expanding trail systems reflect a community committed to public spaces. Institutions such as Bethune-Cookman University and Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University contribute to its national and international profile in education, leadership and aerospace innovation.

From motorsports and higher education to beach culture and coastal resilience, Daytona Beach’s fame is rooted in its ability to evolve while honoring its past. The result is more than a destination; it is a city whose shoreline continues to shape its story and attract visitors from around the world.

* Photo courtesy of Florida Memory, State Library and Archives of Florida.

Look Ahead: Week 8

City of Champions, Honoring Daytona's Sports Culture

*Participants who dress according to the weekly theme will receive a raffle ticket for a chance to win prizes at the end of the program.

Tuesday, March 3 at 5:30 p.m. 

Pro Fitness with Bruce McNorton

Attire: Sports Jersey or Athletic Team

Daytona Stadium, 3917 LPGA Blvd.

Thursday, March 5 at 5:30 p.m.  

Pro Fitness with Bruce McNorton

Attire: Sports Jersey or Athletic Team

Jackie Robinson Ballpark, 105 E. Orange Ave.

We’re inviting participants to share their favorite healthy recipes for a chance to be featured in an upcoming city promotion. Whether it’s a quick breakfast, a family favorite or a nutritious snack, your recipe could help inspire others to eat well.

Submit your recipe with a brief description and photo, if available, to Ingrid Laas, food and beverage assistant, at LaasIngrid@DaytonaBeach.gov. 

Healthy HabitS wINNERS

In Week 4, three participants received the Healthy Habits Commitment Award in recognition of their discipline and success in maintaining weight loss from the 2025 challenge finale to the kickoff of the 2026 Mayor’s Fitness Challenge.

First place: Mary McCoy — 31 pounds lost, 16% of body weight

Second place: Patricia Hill — 11 pounds lost, 5.5% of body weight

Third place: Barbara Augun — 9 pounds lost, 4.7% of body weight

Follow the City of Daytona Beach on social media for the latest news, events and highlights from around the city. 

View and download high-quality photos from city events, programs and initiatives on the city’s Flickr page, which will be regularly updated with photography captured throughout the week.

Stay informed and connected by following, watching and sharing city content across our social platforms.

Weekly video content will be uploaded on the city’s YouTube channel, featuring program coverage and session highlights.