The US Department of Health and Human Services recommends that adults spend at least 150
minutes a week on moderate exercise to stay in good health. However, the thought of a quick jog
around the park or competing against wannabe bodybuilders at the local gym can put people off
trying. If you are keen on getting your 150 minutes in and like to try all things new, we have put
together five alternative sports you can try to kick off 2019’s New Year’s resolution of getting fit.
Wave Boarding:
Wave boarding, funnily enough, needs no waves! It is a type of skateboard that makes you feel as
though you are surfing or snowboarding as it only has two wheels. Originally invented as an extreme
sport, this activity has gained the attention of adults and children alike. It also has the potential to
provide a full body workout, as you need to be able to balance well to get moving. Your abs, glutes,
and legs will start to feel more toned once you get to grips with this up and coming sport. You just
need a caster board, a helmet, comfortable clothes, and some elbow and knee pads to get started.
Figure Skating:
The Winter Olympics inspire a lot of people to get out onto the ice rink, but why not take it one step
further and learn to figure skate? All you need for this sport is some good quality skates such as
these Riedell figure skates and a bit of time to practice getting your balance right. Contact your local
ice rink and ask whether they have a basic skills program where there will be an experienced skater
to help you get started. This sport will improve your flexibility, and with the focus on moving your
lower body, you will start to build leg muscle.
Quidditch:
Yes, you have read it correctly; Quidditch is fast becoming a popular sport that has its own premier
league. It is a mixture between catch-me, rugby, and volleyball, but you must run with a broomstick
between your legs. The broomsticks are simply bits of PVC piping with safety caps on the ends and
the ball is a deflated volleyball known as a ‘quaffle’. This fun but intense sport counts as a great
cardio workout.
Bike Polo:
Bike polo may sound like a relatively new sport but it has actually been around since 1891. To get
started, you will need a few more enthusiastic players with bikes, some croquet mallets, a hockey
ball, and a couple of goal posts. The aim of the game is to score without falling off your bike. Just
make sure you are wearing head safety gear, as this game can get quite extreme. It will also provide
a full body workout.
Freerunning:
Instead of a quick sprint around the block, why not try your hand at freerunning? Freerunning helps
you to work on your upper body strength as well as your overall fitness level and basically involves
getting from one point to another in the most creative way you can think of. All you need to get
started is an outdoor space with lots of obstacles.
Why not give one of these sports a try? You never know, you may find a hobby for life!
