New Year, New Moves: 3 Sports to Try Out

The new year is the perfect time to explore new hobbies and maybe even implement on into your life permanently. Trying new sports not only helps to improve your fitness in a fun way, but can also help to improve motivation and mental health at the same time, so there's no better time to put yourself out there and try something new. But where do you start, and what new hobbies should you take up?

Well, this list of 3 sports to take up in the new year gives you some ideas of some accessible and beginner-friendly sports that offer fresh excitement for this year ahead.

Padel

What and why: Padel is a mix of tennis and squash, which is played on a small court with walls that have gained popularity, especially in cities the last few years. As it is inside, you can play it all year long, and it's easy to learn, so it's great for all ages. On top of this, it's great for improving cardio and hand-eye coordination, as well as those who enjoy the social aspect of sports, as it's usually played in doubles, meaning that you can get fit and make friends for life.

Beginner's tips: For beginners, it's best to start with basic rallies with simple forehand hits and to focus on positioning rather than power. It's also beneficial to join local padel clubs for beginner sessions to learn, whilst getting to socialise with others.

Indoor Rock Climbing

What and why: There are two types of indoor climbing: bouldering, which involves short climbing walls in which you climb with no ropes and top rope climbing, which is done with a harness on taller walls. Both are great for strength training, balance and problem solving for a great full body workout. What's great about climbing is its ability to help with mental resilience and gain a sense of achievement, whilst being accessible for all types of abilities and people. 

Beginner's tips: Take intro classes to learn basics and to learn safety, and go with a friend for support and motivation.

Reformer Pilates

What and why: Pilates is a full-body workout done on a reformer pilates machine using springs, resistance and controlled movements. It's great for building core strength, mobility and improving posture with its intense but low-impact workouts. It is suitable for all levels, as you can adapt movements to your ability and attend class for all differing abilities. Its preventative aspect makes it unique as it helps to stop future injuries and improve body alignment.

Beginner's tips: Start with a beginner's class and focus on form and breathing. It's essential to be consistent and practice around 2 to 3 times a week to see noticeable results.

New Year, New Moves

So, if you want to go into the new year with a new hobby, these three up-and-coming sports are ones that you should try. To start with, get some new gear from sports companies like A-Game and get fit this new year!