Summer Sports In Chippenham: Join a club and get fit!

Like the rest of the UK’s fitness-phobes I’m a sucker for a fad sport. Last month I was a tennis pro – until Wimbledon ended. Then I suddenly took up an interest in football, which coincided nicely with the World Cup.

 

I’m still looking for this month’s passing phase, perhaps cycling to support the Tour De France? But if, like me, you’re in search of a summer sport to keep you fit and entertained (let’s face it, it’s more appealing when the sun’s out) then why not try some of these clubs/facilities. Chippenham’s got plenty on offer so there’s no excuse for piling on the pounds this summer!

 

If you’re looking for a target, something to work towards, then why not sign yourself up for the Chippenham Half Marathon in September. If you start training now you’ll be fit and ready for the 13 mile run, which takes place every year courtesy of the Chippenham Harriers running club.

  

Or for something indoors the Chippenham 23 Badminton club is a friendly badminton club that plays in local leagues and cup events and training is at Sheldon School on several days each week. Click here for details. Find them here.

 

If you’re not over the Wimbledon madness then Chippenham Sports Club has fantastic tennis facilities and lessons are available for beginners or those looking to improve.

 

But if you’re after an informal rally then John Coles Park has several courts open for public use at a small charge per hour.

 

If you’re interested in taking up a new hobby and have always fancied golf then Wiltshire Golf Partnership is running a new initiative to open up the sport to a new audience.

 

Beginner’s taster sessions are available across Wiltshire and allow people who want to test their swing, but have perhaps been intimidated by the ‘members only’ aspect of many clubs.

 

Check out the partnership’s website for contact details to enquire about any taster sessions near you

 

Or if serious golf isn’t your thing then there’s always Pitch and Putt in Monkton Park!

 

Alternatively if you have some time, and money, spare then why not join one of Chippenham’s gyms? There are three main fitness centres, one at The Olympiad Leisure Centre, the other at The Gym on Bumper’s Farm and the Angel Hotel has a private gym with indoor heated swimming pool. And exclusively for women there’s Curves off New Road.

 

Hockey netball, bowls, tennis and cricket are some of the sports on offer at Chippenham Sports Club; contact them here for details of how to join up.

 

And Chippenham’s newest sports facility, Stanley Park Sports Ground, brought lots of sports and family events to the town since it opened in 2004. The 47 acre site is Wiltshire's largest outdoor sporting facility, mostly catering for football. Tel: 01249 463905 or visit www.chippenham.gov.uk for details of how to join up.

 

For the free, back-to-nature- activities this summer don’t forget the beautiful riverside walks and the Sustrans National Cycleway, which can be found along the banks of the River Avon, which also provides excellent coarse fishing. The Avon is also home to the Chippenham Sailing and Canoeing Club and the Chippenham Sea Cadets TS Tiger.

So there you have it, an exhaustive list, but just the tip of the ice berg...so let us know what we're missing!