Redland: a hotbed for sports clubs and activities

Redland is one of the best places in the city for sports and activities with no shortage of clubs to keep people busy and, more importantly, healthy.

But just what range of sporting activities are on offer - it's more than football, tennis and gymnasiums that's for sure.

First off we have the famous Bannatyne's health club. If you've ever watched the Dragons Den on TV that name will ring a bell, yes it's part of the Duncan Bannatyne empire. Unsurprisingly, its a top notch club with a moderate price tag to match.

Another high end health club is Nuffield Health and Fitness on the Triangle. They offer health MOTs to check blood pressure, cholesterol and BMI and you may just spot Justin Lee Collins in there!

For slightly less strenuous exercise there is Good Vibrations which, as the name suggests is all about power plates. Power plates vibrate the muscles to optimise toning power and are suitable for all levels of fitness.

There's also Active 8, a smaller independent health club, which hosts yoga sessions and unintimidating personal trainers.

Bristol Lawn Tennis and Squash Club is one of the most, if not the most, popular club of its kind in the whole city of Bristol. You can play for fun or train to compete in tournaments, a number of which are taking place throughout the summer. Alternatively, there's Cotham Park Tennis.

For the more adventurous folk, the Redland-based Peak Active is well worth a look. Peak Active organises outdoor and adrenaline-filled activities, including abseiling and climbing. Obviously, these don't all take place locally but they know exactly where to go for the best experiences.

And for a more raunchy way of getting fit check out this Redland pole dancing club - Sin City Pole Fitness. It's not all seedy dives and dirty old men, far from it, it's actually a really challenging yet rewarding sport.

Alternatively, you could take part in the Up and Running group sessions (see the Redland People events calendar for more details). Up and Running on Whiteladies Road is also the place to go for all your trainer/running gear needs.

If cost is your main concern try the only council-owned sports centre in the area - The Kingsdown Sports Centre. See Redland People's previous article on activities for kids to do there during the summer months.

So there's no excuse to stay inside doing nothing, get up get out and get fit.