The Indiana city of Columbus isn’t as well-known nationally as the Columbus in Ohio. Fitness nuts and sports lovers, however, will find much to enjoy in the Indiana city of 40,000 in the south-central part of the state. Columbus--the seat of Bartholomew County--not only has facilities, but also has instructors to teach newcomers the specific sport.
Golf
“Golfweek” magazine ranked the Otter Creek Golf Course as Indiana’s 13th-best public access course in its 2010 “Best Courses You Can Play” ranking. The venue has an 18-hole course, a nine-hole course, a driving range, a pro shop and a snack bar. A PGA professional gives lessons at the course.
Ice Skating
The city’s department of parks and recreation operates the Hamilton Center Ice Arena. Adults and kids from four on up can take ice skating lessons grouped by their ability. Ice hockey and speed skating lessons are also provided. In addition to skating, the center has broomball leagues for adults. Broomball is similar to ice hockey, but is played on a non-ice surface with a small ball and a broom-like stick.
Swimming
The Donner Aquatic Center has an eight-lane, 50-meter lap pool with two one--meter diving boards to meet the city’s swimming needs. The center, run by the Columbus Department of Parks and Recreation, offers swimming and diving lessons that begin with a parent and child class for ages six weeks to three years. Older children and adults can also take classes. Kids 11 to 14 can attend a junior lifeguard camp.
Trails
Walkers, joggers, roller bladers and bikers have over 19 miles of paved trails throughout the city. The trails cut through four parks--Lincoln Park, Millrace Park, Noblitt Park and Westenedge Park--and passes creeks, farmland, green space and rivers.
Farmer's Market
The right foods help people to stay fit. The Columbus Farmer’s Market--or the "Fair on the Square"--runs from June through September. Vendors sell fresh farm produce. You can also purchase fresh-cut flowers, plants and herbs and wine products.
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