Members of the Chattanooga Bicycle Club sponsor weekly road and mountain rides. Bicycle enthusiasts can sample events for free. Membership is $30 a year.It's almost the middle of January and already those New Year's resolutions are on the back burner. But just because the irresolute are still smoking, their kitchens are messy or they haven't quite started to learn Chinese doesn't mean they need to skip the goal of getting in shape.
If gym membership is too expensive and jogging's a bore, Chattanooga offers plenty of ways for people of all ages to get fit while having fun.
BIKING
Biking can be a fun way to get the blood flowing with a little more company than an iPod and headphones.
The Chattanooga Bicycle Club puts together several rides every week in which bikers of all experience levels can meet new friends.
"I needed to lose some weight, and I had been riding with a couple other people," club ride leader and four-year member Carol Zitzow said. "I decided I wanted longer distance and a little more contact, a little more social atmosphere."
After joining the club, Zitzow said, the atmosphere helped her stay committed to her goals.
"If somebody's expecting you, it's hard to go and say, 'I'm not gonna go today. I don't feel like it," she said.
Joining the club costs $30 per year, but Zitzow said newcomers are always welcome to tag along on rides for free. For ride times and contact information, check out the club's ride calendar at www.chattbike.com.
BOXING
It's not necessary to be a real-life Rocky Balboa to get involved with a club that produces world-class athletes.
Chattanooga's Westside Boxing Club is free, open to the public and recently trained a 16-year-old girl who won a bronze medal in Junior Olympic Boxing.
New club members can talk to one of five volunteer boxers who teach newbies the basics before pairing them with a four-person workout team.
"It'll definitely get you in shape," said Andy Smith, boxing professional and son of the club's founder. "It's kind of a place for everybody."
Those ready to start jumping rope and punching bags can visit the club at 1600 Central Ave. Monday through Thursday from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. or call Smith at (423) 847-7682.
PICKUP SPORTS
Just because a person grows up doesn't mean they have to stop playing kids games.
Chattanooga Adult Sports, an online community of sports fans ranging from hard-core soft-baller players to disco-loving dodgeballers, can log on to www.Meetup.com/casleague and find nearby games of flag football, soccer and, yes, even, dodgeball.
"It's all free, it's all set up, nobody makes a dime," website co-organizer Joseph Storm said. "Basically, people just show up."
To get involved with events or to start a new one, visit the group's website and create a free profile.
SQUARE DANCING
Those who always wanted to swing their partner round and round - or a find partner to swing - can check out the weekly Star Twirlers square dancing club.
Every Saturday at 8 p.m., Allemande Hall offers light aerobic exercise for the square dance pro novices alike.
"All the people that dance enjoy it," said Star Twirlers member David Garrett. "People may kinda laugh and joke and make a little noise."
FENCING
For $25 a month, the Chattanooga Fencing Club provides members with equipment and instruction.
"You use such a different set of muscles when you fence, it doesn't take much for you to get sore," club co-founder Richard Breon said. "It's a great, cheap, fun, exciting work out."
Beginner classes start at the first Wednesday of each month. Those interested can e-mail info@ChattanoogaFencing.com or stop by Belvoir Christian Academy Wednesday between 7 and 9:30 p.m.
CONTACT INFORMATION
Chattanooga Bicycle Club
• Services: Multiple rides a week for all levels.
• Cost: free for rides, $30 annual fee to become a member.
• More information: Ride schedules and contact information on the event calendar at www.chattbike.com.
Westside Boxing Club
• Where: 1600 Central Ave.
• When: Monday through Thursday, 5:30 p.m.
• Cost: free.
• More information: Call Andy Smith, 847-7682.
Chattanooga Adult Sports
•Services: Online group organizes various sports.
•Cost: free
•More information: Sign up at www.meetup.com/casleague
Star Twirlers Square-dancing
• Where: Allemande Hall, 7400 Standifer Gap Road
• When: Saturdays, 8 p.m.
• More information: Call Dave Garrett, 899-2725.
Chattanooga Fencing Club
• Where: Belvoir Christian Academy
• When: Wednesdays, 7 p.m.
• Cost: free
• More information: e-mail info@chattanoogafencing.com, www.chattanoogafencing.com