Don’t like the gym? Discover 5 trendy activities in Portugal

7 de January, 2025

Regular physical activity is a key element in promoting physical and mental health. According to the World Health Organization, physical activity contributes to the prevention of diseases such as cancer, diabetes or cardiovascular disease, while also helping to reduce symptoms of depression or anxiety, for example.

The organization’s recommendation is for adults to do at least 150 to 300 minutes of physical activity a week and to do muscle-strengthening activities at least twice a week. However, 31% of adults do not meet these targets.

If one of your resolutions for 2025 was to take more care of yourself and start living a healthier lifestyle, but you don’t like going to the gym, we have the solution for you. There are some activities and sports that have been gaining prominence in Portugal and that you might like to try this year. Find out what they are!

1 – Padel

Padel has seen strong growth all over the world and in Portugal it is also gaining more and more fans. It’s a racket sport that combines elements of tennis and squash and is played in doubles.

Depending on the level of the players, a game of padel can be highly dynamic and a good way to exercise, improve coordination, agility and cardiovascular endurance.

What’s more, since it involves four people on the pitch, it also has a social and fun component. It can therefore be an excellent opportunity for a refreshing break from the daily grind.

2 – Pilates

Pilates is a method of physical exercise and stretching focused on flexibility, mobility and improving posture. At the same time, it also helps to lose weight and tone up, as it involves exercises that work the whole body.

This modality can be practiced using only the weight of the body or using equipment, such as the Pilates Reformer, which has become popular in our country.

Pilates sessions are often versatile and adapted to different physical levels and limitations, as well as being safe and low-impact. They can therefore be a good way to relieve stress, help prevent injuries and improve your quality of life.

3 – Cycling

Indoor cycling has seen a growth trend, especially with the spread of specific studios for practicing this sport.

Cycling is an intense and challenging activity, ideal for those looking to burn calories and improve their cardiovascular endurance. Classes are usually accompanied by lively music, which makes them fun and more engaging.

4 – Fitboxing

Born in the United States, this sport combines boxing, kickboxing, muay thai and crossfit exercises. It has been gaining popularity for providing a very complete, dynamic and fun workout.

Fitboxing alternates functional training with the bag and is usually done to the beat of lively music. For this reason, it helps to improve cardiovascular endurance and muscle strength, as well as relieving stress and promoting mental health.

5 – Pickleball

O pickleball has become popular in recent years in the United States and has also conquered several European countries, including Portugal. It combines elements of tennis, badminton and table tennis and can be played both doubles and singles.

Its practitioners consider it to be an easier sport to learn and play than tennis or even padel, and it also promotes a high degree of socialization. It is also considered an accessible, democratic game, suitable for people of all ages.

Have you tried any of these? From paddle tennis to pilates, cycling, fitboxing or pickleball, there’s something for everyone. The important thing is to find an activity that gives you pleasure and keeps you motivated to fight sedentary lifestyles and adopt a more active lifestyle.

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