The Alternative Guide To Getting Fit in Wellington

Chances are if you’re reading this and you live in Wellington - the hilly terrain that this wonderful city is renowned for might be enough to keep you fit on your daily commute. However, if you’re finding yourself zoning out during the middle of your gym class, or you’re new to the city and keen for some fitness activities that double as exploring - then keep reading! This article will have something for everyone.

1. Town Belt Reserves: Embrace Nature’s Gym

Escape the hustle and bustle of the city and immerse yourself in the serene beauty of Wellington's Town Belt Reserve. Lace up your walking shoes and explore the diverse trails that wind through lush forests, charming meadows, and picturesque hills.

2. Wellington Boxing Gym: Unleash your Fighting Spirit

For those seeking a high-intensity workout that challenges both the body and mind, Wellington Boxing is the place to be. Strap on your gloves, step into the ring, and channel your inner fighter as you engage in a powerful boxing session. With gyms in Wellington CBD, Kilbirnie & Lower Hutt, you’re bound to find a location that suits you.

3. Rock Climbing: Reach New Heights

Elevate your fitness journey and conquer the heights of indoor rock climbing at Fergs Kayaks. Located along Wellington’s waterfront, their facility caters to climbers of all levels and can also be a great activity to bring a group of mates along to! Challenge your strength, agility and mental fortitude as you navigate intricate routes and scale towering walls. This can also be a great activity to bring a group of mates along to!

‍OR, do it outdoors:

Routes in Wellington

More routes in Wellington

4. Badminton: Smash Your Way to Fitness

Step onto the court and experience the fast-paced intensity of badminton in Wellington. Sign up for a membership or book courts on a casual basis and unleash your competitive spirit while getting a full-body workout. Whether you’re playing singles or doubles, this sport offers an engaging and sociable way to improve fitness levels while having a blast!

5. Shut Up and Dance

Wellington-based dance classes with a twist, this flamboyant 45-minute dance workout surprises you each session, with a film or music video inspired routine to master (or attempt to master).

If you love dancing (even if you can’t), Shut Up and Dance will have you laughing and sweating along the way, with its down to earth and passionate instructors. It’s comparable to a sassy night out with the girls — minus the headache in the morning.

‍

6. Skateboarding at Waitangi Park: Embrace the Urban Playground

Liberate your inner skater and hit the ramps and rails at Waitangi Park, Wellington's ultimate urban playground. The vibrant waterfront destination provides the perfect backdrop for skateboarders to master their tricks and showcase their skills. However if you’re into longboarding - the wide paths along the waterfront and Oriental Parade make for a smooth ride.

7. Walking!

‍

‍

It's not really an "alternative" way to get fit, more of a classic. Getting out in nature is one of the easiest ways to boost your energy levels and improve your mood. Living in Wellington all it takes is a skip, a hop, and a jump and you're out of the city and amongst nature. There are some sweet tech that can help you get out and around the city and one of the best ways to try new tracks and routes is with mobile apps! I've got my top three that is sure to fit any adventurer.

‍

AllTrails

This app is focused on hikes and walks in your area and has a global community, which means you can have as many adventures as your legs can handle. Because the majority of the content on this app is community-generated you can read comments about routes you want to take, create and share your own maps, and follow your friends for inspiration. One of the many features includes recording your activity so you can keep updated with what progress you've made.

With free and paid account options there is a lot of room to make the most out of every step. If you're a newbie/intermediate to nature walks and hikes the free version has plenty to get you out and into nature, and if you're an avid hiker the $2.50 a month has some sweet features to get you excited.

Download it here on the Apple App Store, or get it here on Google Play.

‍

Wellington City Council

The Wellington City Council has an app for nine well-established walks around Wellington. It includes classics like the City to Sea Walkway and the Skyline Walkway. These beautiful walks will take you through nature reserves, forests and farmlands, past historic sites, and picturesque views. This app is ideal for people who want an established route that is easy to reach. 

Download it here on the Apple App Store, or here on Google Play.

‍

Plan Ahead

If you're planning a big hike remember to plan ahead. Let people know where you plan to go, how long you expect to be gone, and hike smart. The Mountain Safety Council have a wealth of information including Plan My Trip which helps you keep up to date with live weather alerts, track options, and important packing lists. There are also plenty of resources including tracks, maps, and other updates on the Department of Conservation website that can help you plan your trip.

‍

What’s your alternative way to work out in Wellington?  It’s always great to add new ideas to our list.

‍