Ballito’s HOT winter playground

Anywhere else around the world, winter conjures up images of gloves, beanies, woollen scarves and trench coats. But here, in the sun-kissed bubble of Ballito, we ‘cover up’ with a light jacket and – on those really cold days – maybe an extra pair of socks. Added to our long list of why we love Ballito is our incredible weather…and that winter is so not an excuse to throw fitness out of the frosted window. We have rounded up the most interesting (and fun) ways to keep fit during winter. Let’s play, Ballito! 

Ballito Pro 

Always a winner in winter – the all-new Ballito Pro 2015, presented by Billabong, hits the shores at Willard Beach from June 29 until July 5. Head down to the beach to catch the superstars of surf shredding up some waves.

Doggie Training

Now, while you’re keeping fit there is reason to leave the pooches out, is there? Absolutely not. Townsend Park is a beautiful green lung in Ballito and it’s the venue for the Forest Hills German Shepherd Club Ballito dog and puppy training. Your beloved hound can learn obedience and protection from pro dog handler and instructor Anthony Du Plessis on a Saturday morning. While your doggie is in class, take a run, job or walk around the gorgeous park.
Contact: Gaby Lyle | 082 925 6481

Sugar Rush

This is a ball for the whole family, designed to give everyone a magical time. There is a range of activities for everyone to try out, and a coffee shop for the not-so-active people in the familia to chill out with a light meal and cooldrink. Sugar Rush has more than 100km of mountain biking and running trails, all designed and built by champion riders. There are trails for beginners and novices, and challenging trails for those a bit more serious about riding.
Contact: 087 351 2954 or visit their website 

Footy

Footy, located at Townsend Park, is an outdoor sporting facility offering various indoor sports: soccer, netball and cricket for all ages, boys and girls, irrelevant of skill level. At Footy, several competitive and social leagues as well as non-league games take place. There’s a place for everyone at Footy – even if you’re looking to just chill out and have some fun with a friendly game of soccer, netball or cricket. The Footy family will soon include indoor hockey! They also do birthday parties, if you’re scouting a cool venue.
Contact: Kyle Crichton | 084 519 4140 or visit their website

Bob’s Boot Camp

Now, this one is perfect for those who want to keep fit but can’t handle the gym…or everyone staring at you while you lose the flab. Bob’s Boot Camp is an inspired, outdoor group training programme that teaches discipline based on motivation techniques. It’s been scientifically designed to achieve maximum results in the minimum amount of time. Join the movement – the crew works out at Umhlali Preparatory (before school, so you’re fresh for the rest of the day) and does a few sessions on the beach.
Contact: Bob Russell | 082 441 7958 or visit their website

The Ballito Promenade

Where do I begin? Aside from easily being the most beautiful strip in Ballito and getting you close to our stunning ocean the Promenade can be your very own gym, if you allow it to. Join the regulars every morning or afternoon and have a walk or jog through Clarke Bay and Salmon Bay. Or, join the yoga classes that pop up outside the Clarke Bay lifeguard tower; you could even take a towel and do your own stretching, if you like!

Stand Up Paddleboarding

Or, SUP for those of us who are a little bit cooler. This trendy sport has caught on in a big way – it’s easy and fun and only requires a few pieces of equipment. You can work your full body on the paddleboard, because you’re standing up to your full height and working your upper arms and torso, all the while appreciating the ocean around you. It involves planting your feet on a paddleboard (somewhat like a surfboard) and using a paddle to propel yourself forward. Basically, you need the paddleboard, a paddle and loads of sunscreen.
Contact: Ballito Backpackers | 032 946 2680

Off Road Rides

Dirt in your face, the sound of screaming engines and the roar of your excited mates – come on! The North Coast has a strong biking community; quadbike and motorbike crews have marked out trails in and around Ballito. There are the eco-friendly guided quad trails on Hopewell Farm, which are suitable for amateur and pro quad bikers. The route drifts through forests and includes river crossings. The Sugar Trail is an hour-long trip from the Ballito micro light airfield across four sugar estates.
Contact: Fat Traxx | 082 477 5837