Looking for a new way to get in shape? Manchester has a wealth of sports and activities on offer that you may not have considered before, so skip the gym and head to some of these spots to lose the pounds and maybe even enjoy yourself in the process!
Who says trampolining is just for kids? Jump Nation at Trafford Park offer wall to wall trampolines (139 in total) which can be enjoyed by those of any age, shape or ability. Whether you choose to attend one of their classes, or just go freestyle, this is definitely a fun way to jump start your fitness regime.
Bhangracise at Chorlton Irish Club
This is a thoroughly enjoyable and uplifting way of keeping fit. The dance moves are set to bhangra music and are so much fun that you will forget that you are doing exercise. There are classes in both Chorlton and Stretford and they might just be led by the happiest man on earth. You will be so full of endorphins after this workout that you will feel that you can take on anything.
Roller Derby at The Thunderdome
This boisterous team sport is no longer confined to the USA. With many teams popping up around the UK, there is a real buzz surrounding roller derby and Manchester is no exception. If you want a fast-paced team contact sport and you aren't afraid of pain, then get yourself down to the Thunderdome in Oldham, where the Rainy City Roller Girls provide beginner drop-in sessions. These sessions are open to both males and females and kit will be provided. Once you have reached a good level of competency, you can join the Roller Girls’ main team, or their male counterpart, Knights of Oldham.
Chill Factore may be more known for skiing and snowboarding but why not try your hand at the latest craze that's been sweeping across the slopes - snowscoot. A coss between snowboarding and BMX, this unconventional sport is practiced by mountain bikers during the winter months and requires no prior skill, so even if you’ve never been on a bike or a board you can give it a whirl. Equipment is provided but make sure you wrap up warm as Chill Factore prides itself on its real snow pistes. With prices starting from £22, snowscoot can be a little on the costly side, but it's a great day out for all the family - and it's definitely cheaper than the Alps.
Dodgeball with Manchester Bees
If, like many of us, you haven't played a team sort since school, dodgeball could be the game for you. It is open to players of all athletic ability and its simple rules make it easy to pick up. Manchester Bees, founded in early 2013, have three teams and run weekly training sessions in Hulme. This is fantastically fun, fast-paced, social game. If only all exercise felt like PE.
Whether you want to be the next Torvill or Dean, an ice hockey superstar or just want to be able to confidently make your way around the rink, there's plenty of courses and activities for all skill levels at Silver Blades. And if you feel the need for speed, the intensive six week speed skating course could be for you. Learn how to race against other competitors on the ice, and who knows - you might even skate yourself into the next Olympic gold medal!
Fancy getting some exercise in the great outdoors? Check out Time Out's guide to open water swimming in and around Manchester.