Chinese New Year has come and gone and the Hong Kong community has ushered in the Year of the Rooster.

But, while everyone enjoyed the fireworks that lit up Victoria Harbour and the plethora of gifts and lai see packets they received, it’s now the time of year to shed the pounds after days of feasting on the not so healthy groups of the food pyramid.

That being said, we are not asking you to run the equivalent of the Hong Kong marathon every day or swim the distance of the annual cross-harbour race.

Instead, here are five simple and relaxing activities you can enjoy with your family that will enable you to get rid of any extra weight you gained during the festive period.

Badminton

Not only is this family friendly, but you can almost dictate the pace at which it is played. From rallies to games up to twenty one points, it’s your call on how much you want to do. In regards to where to play, Pacific Club in Tsim Sha Tsui and Aberdeen Marina Club are the places to get your game on in style.

In addition to this, you can also enjoy a serene view of the Hong Kong skyline. Plus, your family won’t have any reason to complain about why you spend so little time with them! 

Golf

What’s better than soaking in some sun, having vast open scenic spots around you and competing in a calm round of golf. Hong Kong Golf Club in Fanling, which has hosted the Hong Kong Open since 1959, and the Jockey Club Kau Sai Chau Public Golf Course in Sai Kung are two perfect places to do this. With luscious nine- and eighteen-hole courses prepared for beginners and advanced players, it’s a brilliant way to spend an afternoon with the family and find out whether you are the next Tiger Woods or Lydia Ko! 

Hiking

Sticking to the theme of beautiful scenery, hiking is another activity that is fun for the family and will surely get the heart pumping and the fat burning. With a number of hikes to choose from, including the Lung Yeuk Tau Heritage Trail, Dragon’s Back and the renowned Lion Rock hike, you may stumble upon old villages, breathtaking views, cooling rock pools and yes, even white sandy beaches. So why not reward all that hard work by soaking in some culture or wading in the cool, crystal clear waters. 

Swimming

Speaking about wading in the water, another leisurely activity is a good, old-fashioned swim. Hong Kong has plenty of beautiful pools and private clubs to choose from, so there is no excuse not to dive in. Particularly splash-worthy is the Grand Hyatt’s rooftop pool, complete with sea view and the Conrad’s pool and deck in Admiralty. In addition to working on your cardio, you’ll be strengthening your core and building muscle. Even better, both these plush choices offer shaded cabanas, perfect for a post-work out relax.

Tai Chi

Have you ever looked out the window and seen groups of elderly people doing, what may seem like, weird movements to the drone of old-school Chinese songs blaring from a radio? If so, then what you are witnessing is the ancient tradition of Tai Chi.

Thought to have originated anywhere between 700 to 1500 years ago, the art of Tai Chi is used predominantly as a way to help alleviate stress and anxiety, while also finding inner peace.

Sounds good right? So why not give it a try, especially as the Hong Kong Tourism Board runs a Tai Chi class four days a week in front of the Museum of Art, which is a stone’s throw away from the picturesque Victoria Harbour.

Written by Bimal Mirwani