From popular padel game to breakdancing – we look at three trending sports to keep you fit
THE Euros, Wimbledon and now the Olympics in Paris have had us hooked on sport this summer.
Each of these showpiece events inspires us to move a little bit more – and signing up to a club when enthusiasm is high is a good idea to keep up momentum.
Here, I look at the sports trending right now that could help keep us fit long after the big events are over . . .
Indoor climbing
INDOOR climbing has rocketed in popularity, with a million people now doing it in the UK, according to the Association of British Climbing Walls.
Already an Olympic sport, it is growing by as much as 20 per cent each year.
It provides a full-body workout, improves flexibility and balance, relieves stress and builds confidence.
Enthusiasts say they love it for the mental stimulation, too.
Most climbing gyms run taster sessions or beginners’ courses.
To find one near you, visit ukclimbing.com.
Padel
FIVE years ago, there were 40 public padel courts in Britain.
Today there are 502.
A mix between tennis and squash, padel is so popular, tennis great Novak Djokovic has warned it could steal his sport’s crown.
In padel, surrounding walls can be used, unlike in tennis.
This makes rallies longer and is great for doubles.
Fans hope it will be introduced at the Brisbane 2032 Olympics.
I am the world’s worst tennis player, but I gave padel a go at David Lloyd and found it so much easier to pick up – and I worked up a sweat.
David Lloyd has clubs across the UK and currently has an upgraded Platinum three-month membership offer starting at £164 per person a month, depending on the club.
See davidlloyd.co.uk.
Breaking
BREAKDANCING is at the Olympics for the first time this year.
Originating in the streets of the Bronx in New York in the late 1970s, it is a dynamic combination of dance moves mixed together to create a rhythmic flow.
There are a handful of basic elements, from headspins to “baby freezes”.
At the Olympics, competitors will be judged on technique, execution, musicality and originality.
This high-intensity workout is said to improve strength and agility, and regular sessions help with cardiovascular health.
If you did it for an hour you could burn 400-650 calories.
There are loads of fun tutorials online, which I’ve tried in the privacy of my own home!
For classes, go to breakinggb.org.