Gardening can be a great way to stay active without spending time at a gym.

The brisk yard work of digging, raking and carrying tools works large muscle groups.

This type of activity is also an excellent form of exercise for people who are recovering from illness or a physical injury.

The San Francisco Zoo is introducing a new outdoor yoga program this spring, allowing guests to practice sun salutations and downward-facing dogs while giraffes and zebras graze nearby. 

The first Zen at the Zoo will take place on April 29 in the public viewing area in the middle of the Leanne B. Roberts African Savanna with a one-hour vinyasa flow yoga class, suitable for all skill levels, led by a certified instructor.

“The ambient sights and sounds of the zoo will certainly add to a unique yoga experience, as participants are surrounded by zebras, kudus, giraffes and ostriches in the middle of our African Savanna,” Nancy Chan, director of communications for San Francisco Zoo & Gardens, told The Chronicle. 

Two other dates are planned on July 23 and Oct. 15, rain or shine, with the hopes of making it an ongoing program. Each session starts at 9 a.m.

“Because it is early morning — before the zoo opens — there will also be lots of sounds not usually heard by our visitors, which will be a treat for our yogis,” Chan said.

The admission fee for the general public is $50 per session and includes a full-day zoo admission ticket. Zoo members can participate in the yoga classes for $25 per session. 

Participants are advised to bring a yoga mat, water, towel and athletic clothing suitable for a foggy San Francisco morning. 

But leave the kids at home. Zen at the Zoo is strictly for adults ages 18 and older. Zoo officials emphasize that minors may not participate and that no child care will be provided during the sessions.

For more information and tickets, visit www.sfzoo.org/zen-at-the-zoo.

Reach Aidin Vaziri: avaziri@sfchronicle.com

Source: datebook.sfchronicle.com