The California sun is well-known around the world, and as such Angelenos on the whole have a reputation for health-conscious living, something that seeps into their everyday habits. With the sheer amount of activities and outdoor pursuits, it’s easy to turn any trip to Los Angeles into a healthy excursion.
Watersports
Los Angeles and the surrounding areas have much to offer in terms of outdoor sports. Swimming, surfing, snorkelling, scuba diving, kayaking are all available at Malibu Beach and Palos Verdes; however you’re advised to stay away from Santa Monica beach, as it is a dumping ground for waste and therefore heavily polluted.
The best areas for snorkelling and scuba diving are toward Santa Catalina and Long Beach, which are less crowded and therefore have cleaner waters. Santa Catalina in particular is a prime spot for observing marine life. Surfing is another hugely popular pastime. Rent surfboards, but don’t attempt to ride the waves at Malibu beaches without prior experience.
The Great Outdoors
If you don’t fancy getting wet, join the hundreds of in-line skaters who blade up and down the promenade at Venice, or hire a bike. Adventurous types might want to hike up the Santa Monica Mountains, and there is always the option of jogging or walking around Beverly Hills.
Gyms and Fitness Centers
There are countless gyms and yoga centers dotting the city, not forgetting Muscle Beach, worth a visit if only to watch the bodybuilders and gymnasts. There is no shortage of new fitness techniques, from the bar method--which involves exercising while holding onto a bar--to Spinning®, Pilates lessons and more vigorous types of yoga such as power yoga. There is a new exercise regimen for each day of the week.
Just Dance
Dancers can take their pick from conventional salsa, tango and ballroom dancing to breakdancing and tribal fusion, which is a form of belly dancing that incorporates elements of flamenco, hip-hop and even Bhangra dancing.
Los Angeles has a vibrant nightlife that allows you to dance the night away. The house music scene is relatively small, but there is plenty for fans of hip-hop or indie rock.
Eating Out
Despite the proliferation of fast food outlets in California, Los Angeles has a large number of healthy eateries and food stores. From macrobiotic cafes and raw food restaurants to healthy sushi diners, it’s easy to eat healthy in Los Angeles. The area around Venice, in particular along Abbot Kinney Road, has plenty of offerings, from Gjelina’s fresh produce delivered directly from the farmer’s market to the healthy buffet at Lemonade.
References
- "Los Angeles: The Rough Guide"; Jeff Dickey; 2005
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