How to have a healthy start to 2020

Every year, the most popular New Year’s resolutions revolve around getting healthy or losing weight. But when you’re on holiday in January, that can seem kind of problematic.

However, being healthy doesn’t have to be a chore. Choosing healthier activities can make your holiday even more fun. Think swimming, snorkelling, golf or walking along trails taking photos. Western Australia is naturally blessed with so many outdoor options that it’s easy to get the new year off to a fun and wholesome start.

Image courtesy of Mandy Lancellas.

Yoga

With modern lifestyles so sedentary and stressful, many of us are in dire need of stretching and flexibility. For yoga with a difference, try Yoga at Yallingup each morning from 7am or a session on Busselton Jetty surrounded by the waters of Geographe Bay with Katie Yoga, on the Dunsborough Foreshore with Yoga By The Bay or even aerial yoga. Read more.

Swimming with marine animals

Can you imagine swimming alongside a pod of dolphins? Well, tick this one off your bucket list because you can get close to some of nature’s smartest and most playful animals pretty easily. The Peel region is your best bet for this exhilarating encounter. Read more.

Image courtesy of Jester’s Flat.

Horse riding

You might think horse riding doesn’t count as exercise (for the human, at least) but after one hour on top of a horse you’ll be feeling muscles you’ve never felt before. There’s everything from pony rides for the little ones, through to forest exploration for the more experienced. Find a riding school near you.

Diving and snorkelling

Western Australia has a huge coastline – some 12,889 km – so it makes sense there are plenty of ocean secrets to discover. There are the shipwrecks of navy vessels HMAS Swan in Dunsborough and HMAS Perth in Albany, plus lots of reefs and islands to explore. Read more.

Golf

This is one of those sports that doesn’t feel like exercise because it’s such great fun. And it’s very social. There are some beautiful golf clubs to visit including The Cut in Mandurah and Dunsborough Lakes Golf Club. Read more about great golf courses in the region.

Tennis

Channel your inner Roger Federer and grab a racquet. Have a hit at a local park, personal coaching at your holiday home or visit a tennis club. The Busselton Tennis Club’s shiny, brand-new premises at Barnard Park has recently opened for business. Read more.

CrossFit

Yes, the coolest class around can also be found in the South West. If you want to work up a sweat on your holiday, visit CrossFit Margaret River and Busselton’s CrossFit South West. A somewhat similar workout is F45, and there is a studio for this in Margaret River.

Pilates

One of the best ways to get an ultra-toned and functional bod. Options in the South West include Wellgevity and Juno Wellness for Pilates and barre; Tonic Pilates, Margaret River’s original studio; Newlife Studio in Dunsborough; or Dunsborough Pilates and Yoga offering pregnancy and seniors programs.

Surfing lessons by Yallingup Surf School.

Surfing and bodyboarding

Some of the world’s most jaw-dropping breaks can be found in the South West, which is also home of the Margaret River Pro, and also the Great Southern. There are plenty of family-friendly beaches for beginners and young riders. If you’re chasing big swell, read this. Plus, get tips from a local legend.

Mountain biking

There are trails and landscapes of all descriptions perfect for a mountain biking adventure. The South West hosts the popular four-day Cape to Cape MTB competition and supports a passionate riding community, so you’ll find plenty of resources. Read more.

SUPing at Castle Rock Bay. Image by Photo Elements.

Stand-up paddle-boarding

If you want to be out on the water but in more serene circumstances, try your hand at stand-up paddle-boarding. It’s a great activity when you’re at Meelup or Gnarabup beaches. Read more.

Walking the Cape to Cape Track. Image courtesy of Cape to Cape Explorer Tours.

Hiking and walking

Phenomenal trails criss-cross all the regions. See forests, cliffs, wildflowers, beach views – and sometimes all in one walk! Find out about the iconic Cape to Cape, the outrageously underrated Porongurup National Park, and the Bibbulmun Track. Read our bushwalking safety tips.

Kayaking or canoeing

A picturesque waterway such as the Blackwood River lends itself nicely to a day on top of the water in a kayak. There is also the option to paddle the deep blue, tranquil Lake Beedelup in Karri Valley. Hire equipment for yourself or join a tour such as Surf N Dirt Adventure Tours in Margaret River.

Beach activities

Volleyball, water tennis, jet skiing, stand-up paddle-boarding, snorkelling and, of course, swimming. You’ll spend the whole day active without even realising it. If you’re travelling with children, there are all sorts of games to play including frisbee, beach cricket, tug of war, building sandcastles, or flying kites.

Who says being active and healthy has to be a chore? Make great memories this summer with an outdoorsy holiday.

Browse our portfolio to discover the perfect holiday home for your healthy holiday.

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