When it comes to the New Year, many add ‘get more exercise’ to their list. However, year after year, many people try the same things, with the same results. This year, how about trying something new? Who knows, it might just get you motivated enough to get out there and get back in shape while having some fun at the same time.

Tennis
Many condo complexes have tennis courts, but quite often these do not get as much use as they could. For the cost of a couple of tennis balls, a racquet and tennis shoes, you could get some good exercise, while also spending some time with friends, or even meeting new people around the complex. Tennis is also a great family activity, for although it can take a lifetime to master, hitting a ball is pretty easy.

There are numerous coaches on Island who can help you get started in the game, or refine your skills should you think about joining a league.

For more information, contact the Cayman Islands Tennis Club at 949-9464 or visit tennis.ky.

Squash
For those who would rather spend time indoors than braving the Cayman heat, squash is a brilliant option. Rain or shine, the game can go ahead in air-conditioned comfort, and with leagues catering for all ability levels, you can satisfy your competitive spirit while building your skills and fitness. There is also coaching available for anyone who wants to improve their game.

For more information, contact the South Sound Squash Club on 949-9469 or visit squash.ky.

Swimming
Whether you make use of the perfect ocean conditions, or the swimming pool, a couple of minutes of swimming can help your cardio vascular fitness without putting undue strain on your joints, which makes it an excellent option for those who may need to burn off a couple of calories before taking on a different exercise programme. With a variety of popular open water swimming events including the Flowers Mile, swimming is also a great sport for those who would like to be a little bit more competitive.

For more information, visit the Cayman Islands Amateur Swimming Association at ciasa.ky.

Kayaking
There is no better way to explore Cayman’s shores than to glide around in a kayak. A zero impact activity, at least if you do it right, taking a cruise on a kayak can be as hard a workout as you want it to be, or just a relaxing day of gliding along on the water.

Team sports
Joining a touch rugby, football or softball team is a great way to get a workout while socialising at the same time. There are many corporate leagues, bringing an element of teambuilding to fitness as well. The leagues are based around participants who have full time jobs, so everyone has to deal with time constraints when it comes to games and training, meaning that no matter how little time you have, most of the other players in the league will be in exactly the same boat, which ensures that the recreational element does not get overrun by the will to win.

Running clubs
Running on your own can be effective, but only while you remain motivated. Once the motivation slips, you are not letting anyone but yourself down when you don’t go for that run you had planned. Joining a running club can make a big difference, and Cayman has a number of options, from the longstanding Hash House Harriers to the much more recent Wednesday Night Running Club.

The runs cater for runners of greatly varying ability, while the social nature of the events can help you stay on track with your training. Who knows, towards the end of the year the prospect of taking part in the Cayman Islands Marathon might just start to look appealing.

For more information on Hash House Harriers, visit caymanhash.com or e-mail caymanhash@gmail.com.

For more information on the Wednesday Night Running Club, e-mail wednesdaynightrunningclub@gmail.com.

Cycling
If speed is your thing, cycling may be just the sport for you. From a relaxing ride along South Sound with the family to a loop of the Eastern Districts, the sport caters for all ability levels. It is also low impact, which means it is easy on the joints, while the social nature of the sport makes it easy to pick up tips from the top cyclists on Island on how to improve.

For more information, visit caymancycling.com or e-mail caymancycling@gmail.com.