HEALTHY ACTIVITIES FOR THE NEW YEAR

Welcome to 2021!

I think it’s fair to say that everyone is more than happy to leave 2020 behind, and begin a fresh start for the upcoming year. 

One of the nice things about starting a new year is the sense of optimism it brings with it – and although the future is uncertain, planning healthier habits is a great way to make sure the year gets off to a positive start. As the saying goes, control the things you can change, and accept the things you can’t! (I think there’s also something in there about wisdom, but one thing at a time.)

We’ve rounded up our favourite healthy activities for the new year below, from horse riding to dance classes. Read on to find out our top picks…

One Hour Horse Riding Trail in Stellenbosch

Ideal for animal lovers, this one hour horse riding trail in Stellenbosch combines outdoor exercise with animal interaction.

Arriving at Wild Clover Farm in Stellenbosch, the experience will begin with a friendly introduction to the staff on hand, before getting kitted out in helmets and meeting the steeds who will be your companions for the trek. 

There are a range of horses on the farm, so you'll be paired with one that best suits your size and riding ability - there are even horses that have never been ridden before for those who are completely new to horse riding! 

The hour long trail will take you round one of the surrounding farms, heading to Pete's Place or the sprawling wine farm Villiera, taking in the incredible views before heading back to the stables to bid your equine friend farewell.

Table Mountain Guided Hike and Abseil to Platteklip Gorge

If you prefer some slightly more challenging outdoor exercise to kick off the new year, this Table Mountain guided hike with Platteklip Gorge abseil might be the answer.

The experience begins with a warm welcome and safety briefing, before heading off for your three hour adventure. Along the way you'll see breath-taking panoramas and unparalleled views of the Mother City, Lions Head and Atlantic Seaboard. You'll also witness first hand Table Mountain's natural wonders: The fynbos plants.

These plants will only grow in the richest parts of the world for biodiversity, so Table Mountain is the perfect location to see some incredibly unique nature. Once you've completed the hike, get ready for the crazy part... a 112m abseil! Be sure to get your camera ready before you take part in this experience, you'll get some incredible images!

Adventure Day and Cliff Jump at Kamikaze Kanyon

Another adrenaline-fuelled day out for adventurous types! Experience the thrill of cliff jumping while reaping the benefits of outdoor exercise. By the end of your experience, you’ll feel invigorated and ready to take on anything!

The day begins with a warm welcome from the staff and a quick run-through of any safety requirements, all over a delicious breakfast included in the experience. Once you're ready to go you'll begin hiking to various rock pools for some heart-pounding cliff jumping - so make sure you're wearing sensible shoes! 

You'll need your energy as up next is the 65m waterfall abseil, where trained instructors will offer guidance and support as you descend to the bottom. With the beautiful scenery at Thunder Falls as a backdrop, your group will enjoy a much-needed lunch before setting off again, re-fuelled and raring to go. 

Back at the Steenbras River Gorge pools you'll get to enjoy the cliff jumping again, then head to Sunbird Lodge for a light dinner and a sundowner. The day ends back in Cape Town to finish around 15:30 - 17:00, depending on the season. 

Snorkel With Seals in Cape Town

Another one for those interested in marine life, this snorkelling experience allows you to interact with the majestic Cape Fur seals and other sea creatures in their natural habitat. 

The experience begins on arrival at the harbour where you'll be introduced to the team, then go over a quick safety briefing and wetsuit fitting to ensure you're properly kitted out for your aquatic adventure. 

The instructors will also give you a short training session using the mask and snorkel, just to make sure you're confident in the water. Once prepped you'll board the boat and head out to sea, dropping anchor in a prime seal spotting location! 

Snorkelling is a great activity to take part in if you’re looking to experience the incredible wildlife and sea creatures that live below the water’s surface, without having to complete any diving courses. 

After a couple hours of snorkelling excitement your group will board the boat once more and finish up with hot drinks and snacks.

Sandboarding in Port Elizabeth - 3 Hour

If you’ve never tried sandboarding before, this 3 hour experience is an excellent introduction to the sport – and makes for the perfect excuse to head to the beach!

Your unique experience will start with a short, but scenic boat ride along Sundays River to the famous (not to mention glorious) Alexandria Dunes. 

Upon arrival your expert guides will talk you through the basics of sandboarding. After you’re familiar with the equipment you’ll be using, they’ll give you the best tips and tricks to get you boarding like a pro in no time! 

Whether you’re daring enough to take on the steepest dune around, or you’d rather slide down the sand-hills on a belly-board, this relaxed sandboarding lesson is accommodating to everyone. So, go on and grab your sun cream & your swimsuit, and get ready for three hours filled with learning and laughter!

Private Surfing Lesson For Two in Cape Town

Surfing is a fun and invigorating way to get some exercise, and during this private lesson, you’ll be taught all the basics you need to make the most of the waves!

Meeting either near Bloubergstrand or False Bay, the instructor will provide you with a wetsuit, surfboard, leash and wax, before going over the outline of the lesson. 

You'll start on the beach practising the various body positions and movements, including the all-important 'pop up' that will get you standing on the board, before heading to the water... Yes it will be cold, but as long as you keep moving you'll be fine! 

During your private lesson the two of you will have the undivided attention of the instructor, so you'll constantly be improving your skills and gaining confidence as you ride the waves. If you're looking for the best way to start surfing, you've found it!

Private Couples Tango Lesson in Cape Town

Onto a more romantic form of exercise… dancing is a great way to get your heart-rate up without feeling like you’re exercising at all!

Argentine Tango developed in Buenos Aires and Uruguay from around the 1880's. There are several variations, but all have in common a sensual elegance, distinctive embrace, and heavy reliance on improvisation. 

Your teacher, Rachael, has been dancing tango since 2001, and you’ll benefit from her considerable expertise throughout the session. Rachael draws upon her wealth of experience – much of it gained among the world’s best teachers and in the late-night milongas of Buenos Aires – to offer a uniquely holistic approach to dance. 

This encompasses mind, body and spirit, with emphasis on the non-verbal communication and mindful connection between partners. Whatever your ability, you’ll be delighted by your improvement after just an hour!

Thanks for reading!

Thanks for reading our guide to healthy experiences to kick-start your new year. 

If you’re still looking for something different to do in 2021, browse our full range of experience days here. 

We wish you a happy and healthy 2021, and as always feel free to leave a comment. We’d love to hear from you!