Perhaps it’s a repetitive fitness regime or a soulless gym that’s bringing your fitness motivation down. Or maybe you’re just looking to get out there and be social, whilst trying out something new from Wellington’s thriving fitness scene. Whatever the reason, Wellington boasts a huge variety of alternative fitness classes, teams and unique sports — allowing you to mix up your workouts and keep motivated, healthy and happy throughout the year.
Whether you’re into swinging through the air, launching yourself off a building or jamming to your favourite film soundtrack; there’s something out there for everyone. After all, if you’re enjoying your workouts, you’re more likely to keep it up and get fit.
I’ve rounded up my favourite places to get fit in Wellington, ideal for anyone searching for workout inspiration; so you can get fit AND have a blast whilst doing it.
Note: Aro Digital is not affiliated with any of these companies/clubs, we just appreciate a fun workout.
1. The Circus Hub
Taking place in a 12m stud height building, this remarkable space in Wellington allows you to master and perform a range of circus skills and aerial activities.
Pick from a variety of circus-inspired classes including Adagio (Hand-to-Hand – Acrobatics), Circus training (all-rounder with a focus on flexibility and strength) or try it all with the ‘Intro to Circus’ 4-week course (includes a range of circus skills such as hand balancing, tumbling and trapeze).
Want to try circus fitness with a partner?
If you know of someone else who might enjoy the thrill of soaring through the air on a trapeze, then there’s even the option of working your way up to a Duo Trapeze session together. Great for building up trust together, as well as a strength and coordination building exercise.
For those of you who are flying solo, fear not, partner up with another singleton on arrival.
Prices
4-week taster (4 classes) – $100
Tell me more about how I can swing from the sky.
2. Krav Maga
Fancy yourself a bit of a baddass?
Introducing — Krav Maga! Who knew disarming knives could be part of a fitness regime?
Originating from the Israeli military forces, Krav Magar includes a combination of fighting technique such as boxing, Wrestling, Karate, Aikido and Judo.
Unlike martial arts, it tends to have more of a focus on real-life scenarios. It’s prevalent amongst the special air services as well as stunt performers in the film industry but anyone can give it a go.
Ideal for building up strength, endurance and fitness; with the added bonus of self-defence.
Where:
Prices:
Tactical Survival
$20 Induction Session
Krav Maga Wellington
Stay Safe Session (2 hr:30 min) – $60 pp
10 Pre-Paid Classes – $85
3. Rock Climbing
A workout for the body and the mind, rock climbing in Wellington is an ideal way to boost your problem-solving skills and build up core strength.
Reaching the top will give you an enormous endorphins boost, as well as a full body work out.
I find it a great way to let go of my worries, all focus is on where your next move will be and how you’ll make it happen, to the point that you may not even realize how hard you worked out — until the next day!
Where:
Most beginners start indoor rock climbing and for that, Fergs offers a friendly waterfront spot that has fantastic walls and world-class bouldering facilities (bouldering tends to be more intense, no ropes and not as high as climbing) — both are worth a try.
Prices:
Climbing General entry is $21 (adult) $18 (student)
Bouldering $15 (adult) $12 (student)
Lunchtime special – $14
OR, do it outdoors:
4. Ultimate Frisbee
Thought your Frisbee days were over? Not in Wellington. Ideal for getting fit with the added benefit of it being social; this rather bizarre non- contact sport (yes it’s a sport) is a fantastic cardio work out.
Drawing similarities to other field sports (though it can also be played indoors), players score by passing to teammates and eventually catching the disc in the attacking ‘end zone’.
Wellington has several leagues to suit the needs of casual to more competitive players. The season has started but it’s possible to join existing teams and training sessions year-round.
Tell me more about Ultimate
Alternatively, there’s disc golf in Wellington.
Similar to regular golf, the aim is to throw a flying disc towards a target with as little throws as possible. This cardio workout provides full body conditioning and there’s a low risk of injury.
If you want to take it to the next level there’s even an annual competition in Wellington called ‘The Faultline Fury.’
Find out more about Disc Golf in Wellington here.
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.
Where:
Classes can be found at Whitireia on Vivian Street, Island Bay and Poriruia, Wellington.
Prices:
$20 per class
Tell me more
6. Parkour
The workout that allows you to explore Wellington with fresh eyes and see that there’s been a giant obstacle course right beneath your feet the whole time.
Parkour involves manoeuvring your way around the city, using a combination of coordination, creativity and bravery. The nature of exploring potential jumps and obstacles along the way keeps your mind focused whilst you simultaneously enhance your strength and fitness.
Expect a real boost in self-esteem as you conquer obstacles in your own unique way.
Where:
Well anywhere really!
To learn from the pro’s try a free class with NZ Parkour.
Sundays – 1:00pm onwards at Frank Kitts Park
Wednesdays – 7:00pm onwards at Civic Square
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.
Breadcrumbs
Currently only available to IOS devices, this wicked app does more than just walks. It’s the motherload of things to do from local hikes, where to go zorbing, to the best place to jump out of a plane (nervous sweating counts as exercise right?). This app caters to anyone who is new to a city, on holiday, or is keen to dig their teeth into new experiences. Because the majority of content is community-generated you’re getting the best hikes and walks that the locals know about. Best of all, it's free!
Download it here on the Apple App Store.
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.
.png)
