Joanne
I don’t know about you, but I love watching the Olympics and rooting for my favorite athletes. Phelps, Biles, Ledecky — these names are now forever engrained in our minds as we all stay up past midnight to watch their amazing feats of strength with a bag of potato chips in hand. But honestly, watching the competitions really makes me want to get off my ass and get going — especially the sports that we don’t normally see on a daily basis like fencing, rowing, and archery. As I watch these sports heroes, I think to myself, “I wanna do that,” because it’s never too late to go for that Olympic dream.
Well, the good thing about living in the Bay Area is that just about any activity is readily available to us. What better way to get in shape than by trying out these Olympic sports by way of fitness classes or clubs that you may have never thought about trying? Whatever you choose, know that picking up a new sport should come with an open mind. You’ve just got to get out there, have fun, and channel your inner-Olympian while you burn those calories and go for the gold. (All places listed below offer adult & kids classes.)
Fencing
San Carlos, Ca
If fencing has struck your interest, then check out the Peninsula Fencing Academy in San Carlos. They have adult beginner classes that will introduce you to the sport and the best thing about it is that they provide all the equipment for you. You’ll get a dynamic workout while you learn footwork, bladework, and bouting to name a few.
Archery
Oakland, Ca
If you’re looking to be the next Katniss Everdeen IRL, then check out the classes at the Redwood Bowmen Archery Club in Oakland nestled behind the Chabot Space and Science Center. The 35-acre range is free and open to the public but accepts donations if you just want to use the facility from dusk to dawn. If you want to learn, however, they also have classes through the East Bay Regional Parks where they also supply all the equipment.
Gymnastics
Emeryville, Ca
Head over Heels offers 120-minute classes for adults twice a week and by the looks of what the ‘Final Five’ have done, I’m sure you’ll get a great workout! If you’re interested in just trying it out, classes are $20 for drop-in. You can also check their website for monthly fees so you can really work on your floor routine.
Rowing
Oakland, Ca
Whether you’re interested in sculling or sweeping (that’s the two types of rowing, for noobs), you can take lessons from this club on beautiful Lake Merritt. Check their website for registration fees and beginner FAQs so you too can pretend like you’re one of the U.S. Olympic rowers rowing for a medal of your own.
Indoor Rowing
RowClub
San Francisco, Ca
If outdoor rowing isn’t your thing or you’re not quite ready to be out in the elements, you can try it inside. RowClub in San Francisco is a fitness studio that focuses on the rowing machine. Durin these classes, you’ll get weight and core training to round out that rower’s bod. Check their website for class prices/packages but if you just want to try it out, your first trial class costs $10.
Equestrian
Saratoga, Ca
A mere 25-minute drive from downtown San Jose, Garrod Farms Riding Stables offers group or private horseback riding lessons on their beautiful farms that overlook the San Francisco Bay Area and Santa Clara County. They offer both Western and English style riding and classes are 30 or 50 minutes long.
Trampoline
West Oakland, Ca
TrapezeArts in Oakland teaches awesome mixed-level trampoline classes throughout the week that give you a different kind of workout. This place is also known for its circus classes like trapeze, juggling, and aerial arts for a more non-Olympic, out-of-the-box experience.
Table Tennis
San Jose, Ca
With the motto, “bringing table tennis to the masses,” you know this place is going to offer a lot. Unassuming from the outside, Top Spin offers group, semi-private, and private lessons for those just starting out or if you’re already a seasoned player, they also have classes for you to learn more advanced moves.
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