Alternative sports and fitness in Birmingham

Staying active doesn’t have mean spending an hour on the treadmill, check out our favourite places to try out some alternative sports and discover a new hobby.

Posted 17 August 2023

Our guide to some of the best alternative sports to try

1. Redpoint Climbing Centre

You don’t have to head out into the countryside to have a go at rock climbing or bouldering, we actually strongly recommend you try it somewhere with a crash pad first!

Red Point Climbing Centre is perfect for beginners and located just 10 minutes away from New Street Station, so why not be bold and book a taster session?

2. Natural Swimming at Dosthill Quarry

Take the plunge and have a go at natural swimming, we can’t promise the water will always be warm but we can promise beautiful views, relaxing surroundings and a refreshing swim!

3. Rush trampoline parks

We jumped for joy when Rush trampoline park opened in Brum! You won’t even realise you’re exercising as you bounce from trampoline to trampoline, dive into a giant foam pit or hurdle through the assault course. But trust us, you’ll feel the burn the next day.

5. Paddleboarding and windsurfing at Edgbaston Reservoir

If you don’t give this one a go, you’ll feel oar-ful!

Whilst standing on a board in the middle of open water might sound a little tricky, you’ve got no excuse as Sail Birmingham offers beginners sessions to help you gain some confidence – and balance – on the board.

6. Hot Yoga at Yoga Sweat

Fancy something a little more zen? Sweat it out during a hot yoga class.

Yoga in a heated room can help you relax more than regular yoga, but if that feels like too much of a stretch, Yoga Sweat offers beginners classes too!

Places to watch sports

More of a spectator? Check out where to watch some of Birmingham's world-famous sports teams.