Five family fitness initiatives to try in London, from HIIT to yoga
PE with Joe Wicks is one of the things we remember most vividly from the blur of lockdowns I, II and II.
We’re all attempting to move on with our lives now but that doesn’t mean family fitness has to stop there.
Here are five classes you can join – as a family – for some fitness fun with your brood in tow.
Taekwondo, Palcic Taekwondo
Punch yourself into shape with family Taekwondo classes. With the Tokyo 2020 Olympics having passed this summer, this martial art is more popular than ever with Olympians like Bradly Sinden and Lauren Williams bringing home medals. And now, with Palcic Taekwondo’s family classes you can all become champions. As well as keeping fit and learning self-defence, martial arts is a discipline that challenges you to be the best you can in everything you do – from increasing self-confidence to motivating yourself in everyday life.
Where: Multiple locations; palcictaekwondo.co.uk
Age: 4+
Family HIIT at David Lloyd
David Lloyd has launched HIIT (high intensity interval training) for the whole family at its clubs. So if you still think you can get away with half-hearted burpees, think again – your kids will never let you live it down. With fast-paced beats to keep you pumped, the Blaze Rebel sessions have short rotations across three zones: cardio, strength and combat. Cardio consists of running and walking; strength incorporates weighted exercises and combat is all the kicks and punches you can throw at the punch bag.
Where: Multiple locations; davidlloyd.co.uk
Age: 8+
Yoga, Yoga 4 Happiness
Get your om on with Paula’s family yoga classes, connecting parent and child through the powers of mindfulness. These classes are about encouraging confidence, trust and bonding between family members using music, games and even your pets. Think if it as a mini mental retreat for all, restoring minds and emotions to equilibrium. Drop into a collective downward dog pose and feel tension melt away.
Where: North-west London (client home or Paula’s home); yoga4happiness.com
Age: 4+
Cycling, Cycle Confident
Cycle Confident runs sessions in over 10 London boroughs for families, teaching them how to cycle safely together and confidently in a group. A trained instructor will guide you – and your little ones – on a tailored two-wheeled ride through London. If you’re already used to cycling as a cohesive familial huddle, then your instructor can simply advise you on fun routes to take as a family.
Where: Multiple locations; cycleconfident.com
Age: Dependent on borough
Rafting, Lee Valley
Family of five and up for an adventure? Then this wild water ride is for you. The family rafting session through the rapids of Lee Valley’s Legacy Loop comprises 90 minutes of fun fitness for all. Terrified? Don’t be – before you brave the rapids, you’ll be taught everything you need to know to brave the elements. Once you’re kitted out in your wetsuits and boots, you’ll say hi to your raft guide who’ll help you through the Legacy Loop. Get ready to work muscles you didn’t know existed while paddling – when you feel the burn next day, know it’s worth it. Paddle on!
Where: Station Rd, Waltham Cross, EN9 1AB; visitleevalley.org.uk
Age: 8+
