Written by Dr James Tan
Singaporeans are constantly on the lookout for new ways to get moving, but with all the trendy fitness centers popping up all over the island, it can be difficult to know where to start, particularly if you are not very athletic. The good news is that starting here requires neither fitness nor expertise.
Even if you have never been the “sporty type,” there are several low-key, enjoyable, and completely accessible sports suitable for beginners. These five easy-to-learn sports in Singapore are meant to welcome everyone, regardless of your search for something relaxing, adrenaline-pumping, or a fresh approach to keep active.
Stand-Up Paddling (SUP)
It is best for outdoor enthusiasts and ocean seekers. Stand-up paddling is of the most beginner-friendly water activities on offer; it’s far easier than it seems. You can use a paddle to move across the water while standing (or kneeling) on a wide, strong board.
Why Try it?
1. Low-impact, full-body exercises strengthen your arms, core, and legs, thereby enhancing your balance.
2. Relaxing and scenic: You might drift on calm waters with stunning views of the shore.
3. Get ready to start: Most boards are very stable, and teachers will guide you step-by-step.
Where to try it?
- Ola Beach Club (Sentosa)
- SUP Enterprises (Pasir Ris)
- Constant Wind Sea Sports Centre at Changi
What You Need:
Bring a change of clothes, sunscreen, and a swimsuit. Usually, all of the equipment(board, paddle, and life jacket) is provided.
Cost:
Sessions range from $30 to $50 (including equipment). There are beginning seminars and group classes.
Bouldering
Perfect for adrenaline chasers and puzzle solvers
If you don’t like going to the gym, bouldering might be a great way to work out. This kind of low wall climbing without ropes is more about body control and solving problems than it is about using pure muscle.
Why try it?
- Little to no experience is required! You can walk in and begin climbing without any equipment or experience.
- It is challenging yet fun! Every climbing route, sometimes known as a “problem,” is like a little physical puzzle.
- Inclusive and welcoming: Most climbing gyms have beginner walls and first-time classes for you to test!
Where to try in Singapore:
- Boulder+ (Aperia or Tai Seng)
- Climb Central (Kallang Wave Mall)
- Project Send (Ubi)
What you need:
You will need chalk, comfortable clothing, and climbing shoes(usually rented).
Staff will assist with safety protocols.
Cost:
$20–$30 admission; rental equipment is $5–$8.
There are first-time packages too. Find out more from your gym operator!
Mixed Martial Arts (MMA)
Best for: High-energy individuals and stress-busters
Do you believe MMA is reserved for ring-bound strong guys only? Modern MMA gyms in Singapore provide entry-level courses for regular people trying to get healthy, pick up basic self-defence, and boost their overall confidence.
Why would one try it?
- Improves speed, balance, and agility. Combines striking(like boxing) with grappling(like wrestling).
- An excellent approach to releasing stress after work is engaging in fun activities that help you unwind.
- Most gyms help to promote respect, encouragement, and teamwork.
Where to try in Singapore:
- Evolve MMA (multiple outlets)
- The Jungle MMA (Boat Quay)
- Juggernaut Fight Club (Bendemeer)
What you need:
Dress in sportswear. For trial lessons, the gym will often have gloves, mats, and other gear available.
Cost:
Trial sessions run from $25 to $40. A few gyms provide free initial sessions or class bundles.
Yoga
Perfect for conscious movers and those looking for stress release.
Yoga is among the most widely practised and accessible forms of exercise available. It incorporates breathing, stretching, and meditation, and you don’t even need to be flexible to begin.
Why try it?
- Gentle on the body: Many forms of yoga are low-impact and flexible enough for all degrees of fitness.
- Mental health boost: Reduces anxiety, improves sleep and promotes mindfulness.
- Convenient: Classes are everywhere, from gyms to community centres and can even be found online.
Where to try in Singapore:
- Yoga Movement (various outlets)
- Hom Yoga (Raffles Place, Orchard)
- Community Centres (via PA courses)
What you need:
Simply wear comfortable clothes and bring a yoga mat (some places provide mats). Gyms often provide towels and water.
Cost:
Drop-in rates range from $18 to $25, with discounts available for class bundles. CC classes can go as low as $10 per session.
Archery Tag
Ideal for action enthusiasts and team players
Combining dodgeball with The Hunger Games, Archery Tag is not only entirely safe but also quite entertaining. Playing in teams, you cover, dodge, and run while aiming foam-tipped arrows at one another. This is an action-packed, fast-paced game guaranteed to make plenty of people laugh and have fun.
Why try it?
- Beginner-friendly gameplay: No experience or skill required; only passion.
- Fast-paced fun: Combines action with strategy and laughter.
- Great group activity: Perfect for friends, families, or team bonding.
Where to try in Singapore:
- Combat Archery Singapore
- Tag Team Inc (Downtown East or East Coast)
What you need:
Wear sportswear and sneakers. The venue provides bows, arrows, face masks, and safety gear.
Cost:
From $20–$35 per session for 1–1.5 hours of play.
Final Thoughts
If you have ever thought, “I want to be more active, but I don’t know where to start,” the answer is easier than you might think. Sports need not be competitive, expensive, or dangerous. There is something for everyone in Singapore, and most of these activities are reasonably priced with rental equipment, trial sessions, and support groups available. The secret is to stay intrigued and start small. You just have to show up; you are not expected to be in shape.
Are you ready to try something new? Choose a sport, bring a friend, then take that first step. You might just discover a new hobby and a new side of yourself!
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About The Author
Dr James Tan Chung Hui's Background
Dr James Tan is a skilled orthopaedic surgeon in Singapore who has more than 10 years of experience in sports surgery and exercise medicine. Apart from partnering with the industry to introduce various treatment techniques, Dr Tan has treated athletes from the Singapore National Teams and professional footballers from the Singapore Premier League and the Young Lions.
Dr Tan specialises in treating sports injuries of the knee, shoulder and elbow joints, as well as cartilage and meniscus surgery. He is a member of the elite Asian Shoulder and Elbow Group and a founding member of the Singapore Shoulder and Elbow Surgery Society.
Medical Education and Affiliations
MBBS | NUS
Member of the Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh (MRCS)
MMed (Orthopaedics) | NUS
Fellow of Royal College of Surgeons (Edinburgh)
Adjunct Assistant Professor | NUS, LKC
Senior Consultant Orthopaedic Surgery, Sports and Exercise Medicine
Head of Department | Orthopaedic Surgery and Sports Medicine Centre
Awards
Principal Investigator of Tissue Engineering
National Medical Research Council grants
Collaboration with Scientists at NTU, TUM, A*Star, Osteopore & Trendlines Medical Singapore
Accreditations
Mount Elizabeth Orchard
Mount Elizabeth Novena
Farrer Park Hospital
Mount Alvernia Hospital
Aptus Surgery Centre
Novaptus Surgery Centre
Medisave & Insurance Shield Plan Approved
If you are a Singaporean or a Permanent Resident of Singapore, some of our orthopaedic procedures can be claimed under Medisave. The claimable amount will vary based on the procedure's complexity.
For other situations, please consult our friendly clinic staff regarding the use of your Integrated Shield Plan insurance.
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