Play and Learn in Vancouver

People who love the great outdoors will revel in Vancouver’s endless options for leisure sports, and now, visitors even have the option to improve their athletic prowess while on vacation. Whether you’re trying a new sport or just need a few pointers, sign up for a lesson in one of Vancouver’s sports programs, like golf lessons at the David Leadbetter Gold Academy or snow school at Blackcomb Whistler.

Golf

If your golf swing seems to have an unparalleled ability to send the ball skyrocketing into the trees (or the nearest sand bunker), you may want to seek some professional help. Fortunately, a trip to The Fairmont Chateau Whistler will give you the chance to learn from the best, as this high-end golf resort is Canada’s only location for the esteemed David Leadbetter Golf Academy.

This renowned instructional facility offers a range of day schools, private lessons, group classes and custom events. After your game gets a quick fix, spend some time honing your new skills on the par-72, 18-hole course, designed by Robert Trent Jones, Jr.

Skiing and Snowboarding

With its proximity to world-class ski and snowboard terrain, it’s no wonder that Vancouver is a popular winter destination for snow sports lovers. Take your pick from jutting peaks at Whistler Blackcomb or the ultra-convenient slopes at Grouse Mountain — no matter what skill level you’re at, there are plenty of runs for everyone. Not up to “shredding the gnar” just yet? Sign up for a private or group lesson, and you’ll be carving the mountain in no time.

Private Lessons & Guides from Whistler Blackcomb on Vimeo.

Whistler Blackcomb Snowschool
Whistler Blackcomb Snow School As a premier mountain destination, Whistler Blackcomb knows how to make the most of its 10 metres (400 inches) of annual snowfall per year. Choose from more than 200 trails and five parks, spread across nearly 8,200 acres. It doesn’t matter if you’ve never strapped into skis before or you’re a snow sports professional — you’ll find the perfect place to ride.

Just as the resort offers a comprehensive assemblage of trails and terrain, the Whistler Blackcomb Snow School also offers a full lineup of classes, camps and private lessons. New for the 2011¬–2012 season, the MAX4 Group Lessons guarantee a maximum of four students per instructor so you can get personalized attention and the most value out of your ski or snowboarding lesson. A full-day adult lesson starts at $125.30.

Grouse Mountain Ski/Board School
Grouse Mountain Ski/Board School Located a mere 15 minutes from downtown Vancouver, Grouse Mountain is a quick getaway for skiers and snowboarders. This winter wonderland offers 26 ski and snowboard runs, as well as two terrain parks. Looking to amp up your slope side skills? Book a private or semi-private lesson, which start at $55 per hour, or join a group with a drop-in lesson. Beginners’ group lessons start at $44 per hour and have a maximum of eight people per class, so you can get plenty of attention while learning alongside fellow newbies.

Tennis

Get into the swing of things with a few tennis lessons at Stanley Park. This 1,000-acre park is a major attraction for visitors and locals looking for outdoor recreation amid wide-open green spaces and scenic views of the seaside.

Head to the Beach Avenue entrance to access the park’s main block of 17 tennis courts, 11 of which are “first come, first serve” and free to play. From April to October, you can set up private lessons, which start at $60 per hour, through the tennis pro shop. Drop-in lessons also are available — just check the schedule here.

Swimming

There’s something therapeutic about gliding through the water, and it’s no surprise that swimming also does wonders for getting into shape. Get a full body workout and perfect your strokes with some swimming lessons at the UBC Aquatics Centre.

As part of the University of British Columbia campus, this public facility offers an indoor and outdoor pool, as well as a variety of diving and swimming instruction for all age and skill levels.

 

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