Whether it/s at night, on the weekend, between classes or just a lazy afternoon, Gainesville has plenty to offer without having to stray into the ordinary. From scaling walls to blazing trails, here are a few ways to break a sweat without having to hit the treadmill.
Mountain biking
Discover the beauty of your hometown as you shoot down trails you may have never seen before. With more than 20 cyclists on most rides, it/s a great way to get to know fellow riders and work those thighs. Make sure you bring your helmet, a water bottle and a can-do attitude. Groups ride out from Mr. Goodbike, 421 NW 13th St., Wednesdays at 6:30 p.m.
Rock Climbing
For a fierce mental and physical workout, scale the walls of the Gainesville Rock Gym, 704 S Main St.
The gym offers more than 85,000 square feet of wall to challenge you. With various levels of difficulty, you/re sure to find your niche. Not claustraphobic? Try climbing the cave and tunnel system. You/ll feel like you/re miles away from flat-terrained Florida.
"It/s an awesome upper body workout," said Rock Gym employee Christopher Harabaglia.
Roller Derby
Gainesville Roller Rebels, a women/s roller derby league, is far from your typical day at the skating rink. With bumps and spills all along the track, it/s amusing for both skaters and spectators. If you can handle rough play, this sport will give you a great leg workout and help you let out your aggressions.
"It/s not soccer, it/s not softball, it/s different. There/s a huge sisterhood aspect," said league founder Catherine "Ms. Rebel" Seemann. The Gainesville Roller Rebels will hold its next recruiting event Oct. 21 from 8 to 10 p.m., at Skate Station Funworks, 1311 NW 76th Blvd.
Bike Polo
Bike polo is like soccer, but on bikes. Fine tune your balance and stamina skills while gaining friends and maybe a few grass stains. Find out about future matches at Bikepolo.blogspot.com.
"It/s just a good sport you can get together with your friends and do," said bike polo player Duncan Neiderlitz.
Japanese sword lessons
Iaido, the art of apanese sword lessons and traditional exercises, provides insight into historic Japanese culture and the samurai code. Although not as physically demanding as more high-intensity forms of martial arts, you should still be prepared for a good strength-training session. Classes are held in Gainesville at the Unified Training Center, 809 W University Ave., Mondays and Wednesdays at 6:15 p.m, and cost $10 a session.
Capture the flag
Channel your inner child by revisiting this playground favorite. In Gainesville, a group meets Tuesdays at midnight to play. Follow the group on Facebook-search for "Gainesville Capture the Flag." The events offer an opporunity for meeting new friends and good, clean horsing around fun. All the running is sure to provide a good cardio workout.
Pole dancing
Pole dancing lessons are a great way for women to explore their sexual side. It/s a decent workout, and your boyfriend will definitely be interested to see what you learned in class. Classes are held most days of the week at French Addiction, 819 W University Ave. The classes cost $60 for a four-week package.
"It creates a self discovery that women really enjoy," said French Addiction owner Mary Jane Brunel.
