When it comes to staying lean and mean in Chicago, one is the loneliest number. We prefer the support (and the fun!) found in Chicago's varied assortment of team sports. With spring approaching, it's time to get out of the house and join up (we promise, it's way more fun than running solo on the treadmill). The options are endless, so we're making things easy for you and your BFF. Check out our favorite ways to up your game—and trim your bod!—in Chicago.
1. Roller Derby
There will always be a part of us that wants to try roller derby. Of course, half the draw is the idea of creating a crazy-ass alter ego and kicking major butt on eight wheels. The other thing we must point out is that roller derby is a monster workout! The next time the Windy City Rollers have tryouts, dust off your skates, and you'll see what we mean. If you're skeptical (or scared!) you can watch the next bout this Saturday, April 9. Until then, this editor will keep dreaming. xo, Helena Handbasket.
There will always be a part of us that wants to try roller derby. Of course, half the draw is the idea of creating a crazy-ass alter ego and kicking major butt on eight wheels. The other thing we must point out is that roller derby is a monster workout! The next time the Windy City Rollers have tryouts, dust off your skates, and you'll see what we mean. If you're skeptical (or scared!) you can watch the next bout this Saturday, April 9. Until then, this editor will keep dreaming. xo, Helena Handbasket.
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2. Beach Volleyball
We have a beach, ok? It counts! Chicago Sport & Social Club offers almost any sport you can think of, but we're partial to beach volleyball for obvious reasons. Join a team or rally your pals to form a team all your own. Chicago Sport & Social Club makes league play ridiculously easy and affordable. Beach volleyball is a summer-only sport, so grab friends and a trustworthy bikini and have fun!
3. Bollywood Dance Class
If you're bored with the same old groove, try something totally new, and take a Bollywood Dance class. Bollywood is a style of dance that has emerged from the Indian movie industry. Bollywood Groove can teach you how to work it in a totally new way, all you have to do is sign up! We're partial to the group classes, but if you want to get your feet wet with individual lessons, you've got the option. Bollywood Groove, 1890 North Milwaukee Avenue (between Damen and Oakley avenues); 650-380-6270.
If you're bored with the same old groove, try something totally new, and take a Bollywood Dance class. Bollywood is a style of dance that has emerged from the Indian movie industry. Bollywood Groove can teach you how to work it in a totally new way, all you have to do is sign up! We're partial to the group classes, but if you want to get your feet wet with individual lessons, you've got the option. Bollywood Groove, 1890 North Milwaukee Avenue (between Damen and Oakley avenues); 650-380-6270.
4. Bowling
We're doing it. We're calling bowling a sport. We also think it's time to raise our game past bumper lanes, which is why we're so glad Chicago's got the bowling bug. Waveland Bowl is our pick if you're game for league bowling—an affordable way to have fun and hang with old (and new!) pals. Waveland's summer league starts May 9, so mark your calendars and be sure to register. Yes, we would prefer if you'd wear matching shirts, and send us photos.
We're doing it. We're calling bowling a sport. We also think it's time to raise our game past bumper lanes, which is why we're so glad Chicago's got the bowling bug. Waveland Bowl is our pick if you're game for league bowling—an affordable way to have fun and hang with old (and new!) pals. Waveland's summer league starts May 9, so mark your calendars and be sure to register. Yes, we would prefer if you'd wear matching shirts, and send us photos.
5. Team Sports, et al.
The aptly named Sports Monster website has so many options to choose from, we decided to love them all. If you think you can't hack it at team sports, or worry that the focus will be on competition rather than fun, we have one word for you: Dodgeball. We are positive that you'll find the sport for you from Sports Monster's extensive list. Better still, you'll make new friends and get in some quality fitness time. Let the games begin!
The aptly named Sports Monster website has so many options to choose from, we decided to love them all. If you think you can't hack it at team sports, or worry that the focus will be on competition rather than fun, we have one word for you: Dodgeball. We are positive that you'll find the sport for you from Sports Monster's extensive list. Better still, you'll make new friends and get in some quality fitness time. Let the games begin!