Alternative outdoor sports in Newcastle

Category: Explore

Newcastle is finally stepping into summer; the man-made beach is back, the sea is (slightly) more inviting and we can all spend more time enjoying ourselves outside. There's a huge number of sports clubs on offer in the city that are free or cheap to join, and what better way to make the most of the fresh air than learning a new skill with new friends?

We've rounded up a selection of alternative outdoor sports so you're sure to find one that suits you down to the ground.

Orienteering and fell running

If you enjoy running but are tired of tarmac, treadmills and park loops, fell running could be just the ticket for a refreshing change to your routine, and Newcastle has some stunning places to give it a go. Fell running involves training and racing in the hills and mountains. You'll need cross country running shoes to tackle the grass, sand, stone and mud, or walking boots if you fancy the fells without the running part.

SUP – stand up paddleboarding

Stand Up Paddleboarding, or Hoe he'e nalu in Hawaiian, is the fastest growing watersport in the world. Cullercoats Bay, Newcastle is the perfect place to learn due to its calm and sheltered waters. More experienced SUPers or quickly progressing beginners can then venture out further and explore the many watery coves, caves and the coastline of Tynemouth, Whitley Bay and St Mary's Island. There's even paddleboards that can take up to eight people, which means those who are a little apprehensive about going it alone can try it with friends. What better setting for improving your core strength and balance than on the open water?

Aikido

Aikido is a powerful method of self protection that can be studied by absolutely anybody. It is based on turning and spinning movements and seeks to redirect the force of the attack into the ground or back through the attacker, ending in an immobilisation or projection, similar to the practice of Tai Chi. Newcastle Aikido welcomes people of all abilities and carry out some lessons on the beach! If you're a complete beginner, just pop along wearing a T-Shirt and tracksuit trousers.

Horse riding

Horse riding is a fantastic way to exercise outdoors while working with amazing animals. Newcastle University Riding club charges a very reasonable £35 for membership and welcomes people of all abilities. Ride as frequently or infrequently as you wish and experience speeding across local fields and beaches, tending to horses and meeting new challenges, all while working up your stamina, core strength, legs and bum.

Go Ape

Not for the faint hearted! This one is a bit far out (30 min drive) but absolutely worth a go if you're in the mood for adventure. Go Ape at Matfen Hall is nestled within one of the UK's most unspoilt areas of natural beauty. Here, you can swing through the trees and fly down zip wires while lapping up some of the finest scenery in Northumberland. It's sure to get your heart rate up and is a really fun way to exercise.

If you've recently discovered a new favourite hobby, or have suggestions of how to make the most of your summer workouts, get in touch with us on social media. We love to see our residents having fun and exploring awesome things to do in Newcastle.

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