If you live in a city, don’t think that this means your workouts are limited to pounding the pavement and the gym. Many groups and clubs are now available around the world offering a variety of fun, effective, and sometimes thrilling urban sports. Here we round up some of our favorites to give a new edge to your fitness routine.
Urban golf
Recent research has highlighted some of the many health benefits of a round of golf. But for those who can’t make it to the countryside for 18 holes, urban golf could be the answer. No course needed, you can play the sport in public spaces and on the streets of your city; you just need clubs and a target. There are many clubs now around the world and even a World Urban Golf Day.
Street workouts
You may have already seen equipment in parks and public spaces for street workouts and calisthenics. The workout is tough, but by using just your own body weight you’ll see impressive results. Head online to find exercises to try, workout programs to follow, and even nutrition advice for those who really want to take it seriously.
Street soccer
If you don’t have access to soccer pitches and playing fields, city soccer fans can still improvise with even the most basic equipment. All you need to do is grab your ball and find a little space, a few friends, and a wall or fence to act as a makeshift goal.
Various organizations have now sprung up all around the world for those interested in playing, including Street Soccer USA which organizes games across the United States to help the homeless. The International Street Soccer Association (ISSA) works with clubs in countries such as Singapore, Malaysia, and Canada to help train street soccer players.
Street hockey
Based on ice hockey, street hockey can be played outdoors, literally in streets or driveways, or, if you have access, in public courts, gyms and rinks, which are becoming more popular in cities across North America. For those interested, check out the International Street and Ball Hockey Federation (ISBHF), which as the worldwide governing body of official ball hockey tournaments and leagues can provide information on clubs around the globe.
Slacklining
Slacklining is an easy sport to practice in parks. Once you’ve invested in a slackline strap, you just need to find two trees and the confidence to walk across the slackline! You can vary the length and the height but don’t worry if you’re a beginner, slacklines are normally quite low down and the straps come in different widths to make it easier. Health benefits include improved balance, muscle strength, and concentration, as well as lots of fun. The International Slackline Association (ISA) have plenty of information online for those who want to give it a try.
Urban rollerblading
Feel like a kid again and get your skates on. Rollerblading through the city is a great way to have fun and keep fit. Health benefits of this low-impact sport include burning calories, building strength and conditioning muscles, and it’s a great complement to other sports too. With many cities now offering skating groups, it’s also a good way to make friends while working out.
Parkour
For the more adventurous city dwellers, parkour will definitely give you a thrill. A combination of jumping, climbing, crawling and running across a city and its buildings, it is definitely not for the faint-hearted. You’ll also need more preparation in order to partake safely. This sport also builds up muscles, endurance and mental attitude. It will definitely get both your adrenaline and blood pumping for a great workout. There are groups around the world and plenty of information available from the World Freerunning Parkour Federation. JB
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