Cadence Cycling Studio is a great spot to head to if you’re looking to work up a sweat in minimum time and feel great after. Sold yet? You should be. Located on W. 6th Ave, they’ve got state-of-the-art spinning bikes, excellent instruction, killer music to get you pumped and a variety of classes to pick from. Don’t get intimidated if you’ve never tried this style of workout before – you don’t have to be like Lance, it’s all about setting your own limits and edging them up as you pedal to DJ beats. First timers score a free class if they preregister online.
How about chalking up and hitting the climbing gym? Head over to The Hive Climbing Gym (520 Industrial Avenue) for a challenging workout that will challenge your mind as much as it will your strength. Make it a late night and save (after 9pm there’s a discount). Once you’ve completed an obligatory safety test and are harnessed, you’ll be ready to tackle the walls and have some fun. Drop in fees are $20, or score a five-punch pass for $50 (equipment and shoe rentals are extra).
For those of you who aren’t totally down with working up a sweat and getting dirty, you could always aim for a lucky strike at one of the city’s bowling alleys. Though we don’t quite qualify bowling as a ‘workout’ per se, its still something that will help you stay slightly active. Grab a bunch of friends and head to the lanes instead of hanging out at your favourite sports bar for an evening of fun. Grandview Lanes Bowling Centre, Town n’ Country and Commodore Lanes are all easily accessed and offer something different to the mix, be it glow in the dark, 12-pin or rock n’ roll bowling you’re seeking. Fun is pretty much guaranteed (and just watch the competition heat up).
Into the outdoors but not into the slopes this time of year? How about snowshoeing at Mount Seymour? We know we plug this sport from time to time, but seriously, if you have never tried it, do it. It’s relatively inexpensive (snowshoe rentals are available or you can grab a cheap pair at MEC) and it is a stunning way to enjoy the outdoors during winter. You might think it’s like a walk in the park, but you will sweat – and love it. The fact that it’s a mere 20-minute drive from downtown to one of the Lower Mainland’s most picturesque vantage points makes this a great sporting option with benefits. It’s like scoring a bit of mental yoga time.
With the forthcoming Sochi Olympics just around the corner, get into the Olympic spirit and strap on some skates at the Richmond Olympic Oval. You can channel Apolo Ohno and play pretend speedskater if you want at this massive complex featuring multiple rinks available for public use. The fitness options don’t end there, though; they’ve got a variety of basketball courts and their own 45-route climbing gym to help you work up a sweat. It’s worth the drive (or Canada Line ride) to get there.
If you’re pining for golf, we can’t really help you as most greens are closed for the season. However, a quick trip out to UBC will land you at their driving range for an hour or so where you can practice your swing to your heart’s content (and nosh on a burger and beer afterwards). Winter hours are in effect (Friday through Sunday from 8:30am until 4:30pm), so schedule accordingly.
After all, the best way to #LYNL (Live Your Notable Life) is healthily.
Cover image from: Healthfitnessandsport.com
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