Alternative Sports and Non-Competitive Physical Activities in Manhattan

By NYMetroParents Staff October 1, 2010

If you have a non-athletic child, you can still find ways to bond with him or her through non-competitive physical activities. We've compiled a guide to parks, rinks, and other sports centers in Manhattan that offer healthy and fun activities - like biking, boating, and table tennis - for all ages.

Get off the Couch! Go...

...GAMING

New York Table Tennis Federation

Tribeca; (646) 772-2922, (212) 966-2922; www.nyttf.com

Hosts Saturday and Sunday morning workshops for kids and adults. Beginner and intermediate players are encouraged to attend. Groups include six students per coach.

SPiN NYC

Flatiron District; (212) 982-8802; www.spinyc.com

With 13,000 square-feet of playing space, this location features 16 professional tables, an Olympic-style cushioned floor, a pro shop, an eatery, plus membership options.

Wang Chen Table Tennis Club

Upper West Side; (212) 864-7253; www.wangchenclub.com

Owned by Cindy Wang Cheng, a professional player formerly of China's national team, Wang Chen Table Tennis Club welcomes players of all ages and skill sets. The club contains seven tables, professional equipment, and wireless Internet.

...BIKING

Bike New York

(212) 932-2453; www.bikenewyork.org

Their Learn to Ride program assists parents in teaching their children how to ride a two-wheeler with a fun, easy-going attitude. Kids learn the fundamentals of balance, steering, stopping, and starting their bikes; best for kids ages 5 and up. They host events and rides throughout the New York region.

...BOATING

Central Park

(212) 310-6600; www.centralparknyc.org

Of the many things to do in Manhattan's vast and beloved Central Park, renting boats to leisurely row across the park's 22-acre lake is a family favorite. Row boat rentals cost $12 per hour, with $3 for each additional 15 minutes.

Back to our complete Alternative Sports Guide for the NY Metro Area

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