Keeping Active

There are loads of ways to keep fit in Islington! Exercise can improve your social life, as well as your physical and mental health, so take a look at the list below and see which activity would suit you.

If you're over 60 and resident in Islington, an IZZ card can provide free swimming and and reduced rates for many other leisure activities, including tennis, yoga, aerobics and more...

Go on...take the plunge!

Remember, if it's been a while since you last exercised, it's important to have a chat and a check up with your GP.


Swimming

Did you know that in Islington, swimming is free for residents under 16 or over 60?

Swimming Pools in Islington include:

  • Archway Leisure Centre - MacDonald Road, London, N19 5DD.

    Contact: 020 7281 4105

    Buses: 43, 271, 210.
    Tube: Archway Station

  • Highbury Pool - Highbury Crescent, London, N5 1RR.

    Contact: 020 7704 2312

    Buses: 43, 393, 271, 4, 19, 30, 277.
    Train and Tube: Highbury & Islington


Running/Jogging

A great way to keep your heart and lungs healthy! It's free and the only equipment you'll need is a decent pair of trainers. There are some great parks in Islington to choose from including:

  • Highbury Fields - Highbury Place, London, N5.

    Buses: 4, 19, 236, 43, 271, 393
    Train and Tube: Highbury & Islington

  • Waterlowe Park - Waterlow Park, Dartmouth Park Hill, London, N19 5JF

    Buses: 210, 271 (to Highgate Village)
    Tube: Archway (10 minute walk)

  • Whittington Park - Holloway Road, London, N19

    Buses: 43, 271
    Train: Upper Holloway (10 minute walk)


Use the Stairs

Instead of using the lift, take the stairs. It's a very cheap but effective way of building your strength and stamina, and will help you to tone up and lose weight. You'll be surprised at how quickly you'll see and feel results!



Energetic Housework

Play some of your favourite music and turn what is usually seen as a necessary chore into a fun way of having a good workout!



Dance

There are lots of dance classes on offer every day in Islington, for all age groups. Dancing is a really fun way to socialise and meet new friends, whilst enjoying a great activity!

For more traditional dancing you could try:

  • Ceili Old Tyme Set Dancing at the London Irish Centre, 50-52 Camden Square, London, NW1 9XB.

    Every Sunday, 8.00-11.30pm
    Beginners from 8.00pm
    Cost: £4

    For more details, call Anton on 0207 272 5815

  • Tea Dance Events held by the London Irish Centre and the Irish Chaplaincy.

    Please call for more details:

    Irish Chaplaincy in Britain: 0207 482 5528

    London Irish Centre: 0207 916 2222


Stretch

A simple, free and effective way to warm up your body and a great way to start the day!


Yoga

Classes are available in many leisure centres in Islington and range from the gentle Hatha version to the dynamic Ashtanga. A brilliant way to exercise the body while relaxing the mind with deep breathing techniques. Suitable for all ages and fitness levels.

For more details and classes near you please go to Aquaterra leisure or call Highbury Pool and Fitness Centre on 0207 704 2312.


Cycling

Cycling is a great way to keep fit and active and is a very 'green' way to travel. Did you know that cycling for 30 minutes a day gives people a level of fitness equivalent to being ten years younger?! Islington Council offers free cycling training to residents.

To find out more, please contact William Poutney, Cycling Officer.

Email: William.poutney@islington.gov.uk
Phone: 0207 527 4082


Gardening Clubs

For those of you with green fingers, or anyone who would like to have a go at gardening, there are some great community gardens where your work will be appreciated. Gardens include the idyllic Culpeper Gardens, nestled in the heart of Angel.

For more details, phone 0207 833 3951




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