Spring is the ideal time to start moving your body and getting into shape ready for summer. When we become more active we start to feel fitter, happier and healthier.
Here are 5 top sports to participate
in during spring:
Dragon Boating
Dragon boat racing began as an international sport in Hong Kong in 1976 although the tradition of dragon boat racing has been part of religious ceremonies for more than 2000 years. Dragon boat racing involves paddling a long boat along with 19 other paddlers. There is a ‘sweep’ at the back who controls the direction of the boat, and traditionally a drummer at the front.
Dragon Boating is a complete body workout. It increases your fitness, is fun and brings a great sense of camaraderie from being in a team sport.
Running
Dunning is one of the top ways to increase your cardiovascular fitness and health as well as decreasing your stress levels. The best part of deciding to take up running is that it doesn’t need any expensive equipment and you can be ready and out of the door in 5 minutes. Running can be as social as you like. Many people take up running to find their ‘me time’. Others join a club and run as part of a group. ‘Parkrun’, which is an organised, timed, 5km run every Saturday or Sunday started in 2004 with 13 runners. Now, thousands of people around the world join in a parkrun every week!
Cycling
Anyone can cycle! That’s right-anyone. You don’t need an expensive bike or flashy gear, you just need to get on two wheels, turn those pedals and you’re cycling! Cycling is a great way to get fit with the family. Pack up a picnic and hit the beach or the park.
Alternatively, find a group to ride with (contact your local cycle shop for details) or hit the saddle and ride to work, cutting down your commute costs.
Stand Up Paddle Boarding
Stand Up Paddle boarding (or SUP for short) has really taken off in Australia, even though Hawaiians have been doing it for years. The sports offers a range of options meaning anyone can get into it. Boards come in all shapes and sizes so you have a choice of whether to paddle in the surf or flatwater. The benefits are huge, ranging from it being a great core workout as well as a good cardio workout. Many places now offer yoga classes on stand up paddle boards, meaning you get to practice your balance as well as being outside in the fresh air.
Swimming
Another inexpensive sport that can be undertaken at the local swimming pool or if you’re feeling more adventurous, in the ocean. Swimming is a great for people of all ages because it is low impact.
It has many benefits for heart health, building strength and muscle toning, improving flexibility and balance as well as decreasing stress.
Melanie Eager is a nutritionist and wellness coach with a passion for helping you live life to your full potential. She has two science degrees from the University of London and with nearly 20 years working in a corporate science environment, she is well placed to guide you through the maze of health and wellness choices so that you too can be Eager for Life. Melanie has a passion for running and stand up paddle boarding and completed her first ultra-marathon in January 2015.
