Best Ways To Exercise And Feel Like A Kid Again
(Credit: DesireeEaglin.net)
George Bernard Shaw was onto something when he said, "We don't stop playing because we get old. We get old because we stop playing." It's so true. One day you're killing it in kickball and the next thing you know you're killing time on the sidelines while the kids have a blast. But why should they have all the fun? Consider the following local activities to help bring out your inner kid while getting your grownup bod in great shape.
Bounce On A Trampoline
Sky Zone Indoor Trampoline Park
1625 W. 190th Street
Gardena, CA 90248
(310) 323-4500
www.torrance.skyzonesports.com
Sky Zone is a massive indoor space featuring connected wall-to-wall trampolines -- perfect for channeling your inner Tigger. Start by jumping in place and soon you'll be bouncing off the walls (literally!) and from square to square, maybe even trying a flip or two. You can also bounce your way to slam dunks in their mini hoop shoot area or boing boing into a giant vat of foam blocks. If you want to really turn back the fun clock, indulge in a game of dodge ball played on a trampoline floor. The grownup bonus? It's shockingly good exercise. Safety is top priority but prepare to sign a waiver and try to avoid weekend crowds if you can. Sky Zone also has locations in Anaheim, Covina and Riverside
Go Ice Skating
Pickwick Ice
1001 W Riverside Drive
Burbank, CA 91506
(818) 845-5300
www.pickwickgardens.com
Don't worry if it's been so long you don't remember how or never learned at all; most rinks offer lessons and experts say learning something new is one of the most important ways to stay young! Skating is great for cardio and toning leg muscles you forgot you had. The best part? You can enjoy a wintery skating adventure without actually freezing your toes off!
Paddle A Kayak
Marina Boat Rentals
13719 Fiji Way
Marina Del Rey, A 90292
(310) 574-2822
boats4rent.com
When was the last time you had a great time at sea that didn't involve gambling, sunbathing or cocktails? Kayaking is a great way to get an upper body workout while getting your nautical on even if you don't know the first thing about boats. If you've got arms, you can kayak. For about $15 and a show of your driver's license, the friendly folks at Marina Boat Rentals will hook you up with a spiffy plastic craft and shove you out to sea. Actually, you'll probably stay right in the Marina but keeping company with sea lions, pelicans and other sea dogs will have you feeling like you were born to row. For $25, you can get a two-seater...perfect for a companion of any age.
Play Laser Tag
Ultrazone Sherman Oaks
14622 Ventura Blvd.
Ste. 208
Sherman Oaks, CA 91403
(818) 789-6620
www.zonehead.com
The next time you indulge the kids in this perfect rainy day activity, don't just wait for them in that carpeted holding area -- strap on a vest, grab a laser gun and GO PLAY! Nothing gets your heart pumping like being buzzed by someone leaping out at you in the dark. Before you know it, you'll be shouting, "Take that, Junior!" and stealthily ducking, dodging and laser blasting your way to Terminator-like glory. Loud music and glow-in-the-dark effects create a surreal, exhilarating experience that might make you want to play all day. Still feel weird hanging with the Scooby Doo set? Many places offer laser tag parties just for grownups.
Boogie Up And Down The Berms
Venice Beach
1 Washington Blvd.
Venice, CA 90291
(310) 577-5748
A sure sign of winter in the Southland is the creation of the Venice Beach Sand Berms. The LA County Department of Beaches and Harbors pile up steep sand hills to protect the shore from winter's high tides. Good for us -- these six to 10-foot mounds are just right for sledding toward the surf for authentic California fun! Climbing up the berm over and over again is as strenuous as those hikes up the Santa Monica Stairs and arguably more fun. The berms stay up until February or March, so grab a plastic disc sled or boogie board and hit the sandy slopes!
Noelle Wright is a freelance writer living and playing in Los Angeles.
