As much as expats love living in Stockholm, we cannot deny that the weather and difficulty of meeting people can be quite the hurdles. Meeting locals is particularly challenging. Sometimes the cold, gray skies can get you down, and sometimes work rains on your parade.
You see that one cheery person on the bus and wonder, How the heck does she do that, and in Stockholm?
Well, by joining a recreational class or event of course! It’s no secret that keeping active can improve yours sense of well-being, and you’d be surprised by the characters you find at these random classes. Plus, it’s a lot more fun than waiting in line for equipment at the gym. YLC tracked down some of the most unusual and thrilling recreational fitness classes in Stockholm!
Hula Hoop Dance Classes
That’s right, it’s not just for the playground anymore! In fact, hula hoop dance is the latest trend for those who want to get in touch with their creative side – and it is less intimidating than yoga or pole dancing. There is no physical requirement to start, and it is truly a social activity with expats and locals, where you can laugh, dance and play. Warning: The energy and fun can be contagious! Check out the Scandinavian Hoopers and Stockholm Hoop Dance community for all the happenings.
Hint:
Stockholm hooper, Jelena Mitra hosts a workshop for new and experienced hoopers at ABF-Huset in Rådmansgatan, and details for the classes are posted in the Stockholm Hoop Dance group. Sunday hoop jams in the park will also begin this month. All sessions are drop-in and in English! The cost is 50-100 Kr.
Yoga Classes
Since so much of the year in Sweden is dreary and cold, it is only logical to find so many yoga studios in the city to stretch and twist the body. In the winter you’ve got to stay active indoors. There is a large selection of yoga styles and classes in Stockholm, but the most popular are hot and vinyasa (flow) classes. You can sign up for a regular class that continues for 6 weeks, or purchase drop in passes. It may be more challenging to meet people here as yoga is a self-reflective and solo practice, but going regularly and seeing the same people will make it easier to get acquainted.
There are other fun (and challenging) variations such as Acroyoga. With this practice, students can work on group poses, providing a chance for students get to know and trust one another.
Hint:
The latest studio to open up is YogAhimsa in Östermalm with a brand new facility, and excellent infrared heating lamps in the rooms to keep the temperature consistent. There is an introductory promotion of unlimited 3 weeks of classes for 300 Kr. Classes can be taught in English by notifying the instructor. For Acroyoga, try AcroyogaStockholm.
Sport and Recreational Groups on MeetUp.com
Who says expats only want to meet locals? Expats like expats too, and meetup.com is probably one of the easiest ways to connect with others and make friends in the city. There are many different groups including one for the sporty type. There are weekly meet ups such as Glow in the Dark Ultimate Frisbee (yup, you read that right) and recreational football. Get out there and bring out your competitive side!
Hint:
Sporty People of Stockholm club – small membership fee; Drop-in Basketball; Stockholm Expat Group – ultimate Frisbee & more.
Dance, Dance
The dance class opportunities in Stockholm really are limitless. In fact, we have an entire list of dance schools here. You wanna jive, jump, jiggle and shake? There’s salsa, swing, belly dance, ballet…everything imaginable.
So what are you waiting for? Let’s get physical, make some new friends and feel great about yourself!
Featured Image: Jonathan Lidbeck/Flickr
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