Welcome to October. The nights are drawing in, there’s a definite chill in the air and Sainsbury’s is already selling Homer Simpson advent calendars. So this week I’m on a mission to beat the autumnal blues and as exercise is a particularly good way to do that, I’m focusing on some of Greenwich’s most active activities to cheer us all up.
If, like me, you find the prospect of the treadmill thoroughly unappealing, you might like to try out the new belly dancing classes on Friday nights at Greenwich West Community Arts Centre. The classes cater for all levels so it’s a welcoming environment for complete beginners, with a guaranteed lack of intimidating six-packs. From belly dancing to belly laughing (an equally valid form of exercise), impressionist Alistair McGowan is performing at Blackheath Halls this Saturday.
Mental Health charity Time to Change’s ‘Get Moving’ campaign comes to the Heritage Centre on Saturday afternoon, giving participants the opportunity to try new, alternative exercises to help perk us all up a bit. The activities are divided into 4 different zones: Dance, Chill Out, Active and Games, so there should be something for everyone.
October is also Black History month and as such the council are running a series of exercise classes inspired by Greenwich’s multicultural society. The Arches, Waterfront and Eltham leisure centres are all taking part and classes include Street Dance, Latino & Salsa Aerobics and RnB Dance. Also part of Black History month is the Literary Nightclub at Greenwich Heritage Centre on Saturday evening, featuring music and poetry from the South Bank Centre’s artist in residence, Lemn Sissay.
Finally, it’s Bike Week in the Royal Parks and Greenwich Park are celebrating on Tuesday evening. You and your bike can pop along and get health checked by Dr Bike, to ensure your bike is in top shape to keep you going (and keep you fit and happy) through the winter months.