Spring is in full bloom and it’s time to get outdoors and feel the sun on your face. At Active Luton, it's not just about our gyms, pools and group fitness studios. We also want to provide you with opportunities to exercise in the great outdoors.
Many people know that sunlight boosts levels of vitamin D, which is linked to stronger bones, muscles and teeth. Studies have also shown moderate levels of sunlight can boost our immune systems, improve mood and reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease.
The NHS states that “from about late March/early April to the end of September, the majority of people should be able to make all the vitamin D they need from sunlight on their skin.”
While it’s great to head out for a walk or jog around Luton, we also believe spring and summer are great times to try new things and meet new people. Let’s have a look at the outdoor activities you can enjoy with us.
Stockwood Park Golf Centre
Our golf course is highly regarded as one of the best public courses around. Visitors often comment on how the course is very well-kept and in good condition even after bad weather. They also enjoy the fact that the course is varied and challenging enough to interest advanced golfers, with changes in elevation and some long holes, but accessible enough for those who are newer to the game.
Green fees for visitors are among the most reasonable in the area, but you get the best value from becoming a member with a season ticket. Our full adult rates are affordable, meaning you only need to play an average of once every two weeks to make your membership worthwhile. Of course, all golfers know how obsessive the game becomes, so we’re sure you’ll play much more than that if you become a member.
We also understand that some people can’t always enjoy a membership to the full, as other commitments get in the way. That’s why we also work with Play More Golf offering a flexible membership. Head to our flexible membership page and see if that could work for you.
You can also test your short-game skills on our Par 3 Academy course. Designed with the help of former Ryder Cup star Ken Brown and built with USGA spec greens, its 9 holes each provide a unique challenge. The shorter length also makes it perfect for beginners, juniors and families looking to try the game of golf.
Finally, if you want to experience the unique joys and challenges of golf, but don’t want to worry about equipment, try FootGolf. All you need is a pair of trainers. Groups of adults get discounts, and it’s sure to provide plenty of opportunities for banter and friendly competition.
Stockwood Park Athletics Centre
Nothing beats a brisk walk through lovely scenery with good company. And that’s exactly what our Social Walking groups offer. Venturing out at 10:30-11:30am every Tuesday and Friday, walks start at the track and then head off on one of several scenic routes. Come and join the group for a stroll and a chat for just £3.70. We can supply you with Nordic walking poles upon request.
New mums can also start to rebuild fitness and connect with others at Buggy Fitness. Bring your bundle of joy along and push them around the track for a few laps while having a chat and sharing your experiences. Sessions are £5.70 and run every Tuesday and Friday from 9:15-10:15 am.
If you want to work on your running PB, you can use the 400-metre track all day from £5.20 (£3.70 for juniors). Next to the track, there’s also some outdoor functional strength equipment including monkey bars, a pull-up bar and dip bars.
Finally, as part of our Youth Zone, we hold an after-school Track Skills club for 4-8-year-olds. These take place from 4:15-5:15pm on Mondays and Wednesdays (term time only). These are a great opportunity for kids to make new friends, get fitter and develop skills as they work on sprinting, throwing, long jump and more. Sessions are £3.70, or £1 with a Go4Less Advantage card.
Outdoor tennis at Lewsey Sports Park
In addition to the indoor squash at Lewsey Sports Park, you can also enjoy outdoor tennis on the three hard courts opposite the main gym building. You don’t need to be an Active Luton member to enjoy tennis at affordable prices.
Membership with Luton Parks Tennis costs just £40 for the year and gives you and your household up to four sessions per week at no extra cost. People on universal credit can also get membership at half price.
If you’d like to explore tennis for you and your family, head to Lewsey Park tennis courts on Sunday 19th May, where the Barclays Big Tennis Weekend will be hosting free taster sessions and coaching for under 10s.
We hope you take the opportunity to try something new this spring and summer with Active Luton. Follow us on Facebook for more updates on how you can improve your health and wellbeing with us.