Want to work on a new you in the new year? Try these four things in the Central City to get active without a gym membership.
1. Explore the CBD on foot or by bike
Walking in the Central City is something we can all do with minimal effort. We can pop down to the streets from the office to buy lunch, or to do some shopping. But if you need a bigger reason, there's Open Streets on 15 January 2017.
By clearing streets of motorised vehicles for a few hours, Open Streets Days create a platform for mobility. As a bonus, they make it easy to connect with people. In Latin America, the idea has laid the groundwork for public health programmes in many cities, and Open Streets Days – or Ciclovías – encourage physical activity.
Open Streets Cape Town (OSCT) encourages everyone to join in the fun in Bree Streets and surrounds in January. Says Marcela Guerrero Casas, MD of OSCT: “We want attendees and activity providers to think out the box! Bring a beach ball or a Frisbee. Come in your activewear so you can take part in a zumba class. Or start your own game of street football.”
The organisation has also started a partnership with Western Cape on Wellness (WoW!), which will be setting up a hub where everyone can partake in classes and learn practical tips about health. And there be a bike hub with a safe cycling school, free bike rides for children, bicycle parking, bike rentals, and a bike bus to discover the Central City on two wheels.
Tip
If you can't make it to Open Streets, take a free walking tour. They happen every day. Go to page 9 in the 2017 Best of Cape Town Central City guide for options.
2. Rent a bike from Up Cycles and &Bikes Cafè & Cycle Boutique
Up Cycles is the place to go if you work in the Central City and fancy a mild lunchtime workout. Hire a bike for just R50 an hour, which also includes a helmet and lock.
50 Waterkant St
http://upcycles.co.za
076 135 2223 or 074 100 9161
&Bikes Cafè & Cycle Boutique is also a spot for buying or hiring bikes – from R150 for a half day.
32 Loop St
www.andbikes.co.za
021 823 8790
Infrastructure
The green cycle lanes in Bree Street are skid resistant and a great way to commute along the Central City’s northeast-southwest axis. These lanes flow into a cycle lane on Shortmarket Street and into Waterkant Street. Adderley Street also has a cycle lane, demarcated by a raised curb, which leads you to The Company’s Garden.
3. Enjoy an after-work swim at Long Street Swimming Pool
If you fancy combining your workout with some R and R, there’s nothing better than a swim after a busy day at work – especially in the sweltering summer months.
Adults: R22.00
Children: R11.00
Pensioners: free
313 Long St
www.capetown.gov.za
021 400 3302
4. Drop in for a boxing class
The Ring Boxing Club offers a variety of boxing workouts to suit any fitness level. Want to give it a go without commitment? A drop-in class is just R150.
15 Caledon St
www.the-ring.co.za
021 461 0724
Are you planning to spend time in the Central City during the festive season? If so, please take our survey.
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