Feeling inspired to try something new, we’ve compiled a list of where you can try out these unique sports in Johannesburg.
Breakdancing
Breakdancing, or breaking, was officially added to the Olympic Games for the 2024 Paris Olympics to attract a younger and diverse audience. Australian breakdancer Rachael Gunn, aka Raygun, went viral for her unusual performance, drawing positive and sadly negative attention to the sport. Either way, it was a marvel to watch.
If you think you have what it takes and want to try your hand – or rather, your feet – at breakdancing, DS Dance Studios in Northcliff offers open breakdance classes every Wed from 17:00 – 17:30, with all ages welcome. DS Dance Studios has an impressive track record, training various World and South African Dance Champions. You’ll start with the basics, like pop rocks (footwork). Wear loose, comfortable clothing and trainers, as you’ll move a lot. The studio offers classes as well as private one-on-one lessons. So, lace up your trainers and hit the floor.
Rock climbing
Rock climbing made its Olympic debut at the Tokyo 2020 Summer Olympics, which were held in 2021 due to the pandemic, showcasing disciplines like lead climbing, speed climbing, and bouldering. Are you inspired to scale new heights? Friends and Allies in Strijdom Park offers bouldering sessions every Sat, and you can access the bouldering area plus rent shoes here. Chalk bags are advised and available to buy or rent; don’t forget to bring water. The session includes full gym access, a rundown on bouldering basics, and optional one-on-one coaching for a more tailored experience.
City Rock in Fontainebleau, Randburg also provides a great entry point with its introductory bouldering course on the first Wed of each month. This course covers key safety procedures, falling and spotting techniques, boulder etiquette, hold identification, and grading explanations. Gear rental (shoes and harness) is included, and you can enjoy free bouldering after the course. This session is ideal for beginners aged 14 and up, but bookings are limited. You can also find speed climbing and lead climbing courses for intermediate to expert levels. Plus, there are special courses available for kids.
Skateboarding
Like rock climbing, skateboarding made its Olympic debut at the Tokyo 2020 Summer Games, featuring disciplines like street (skaters perform tricks on urban-inspired obstacles like stairs, handrails, and benches, judged on difficulty, originality, style, and execution) and park (skaters execute aerial tricks in a bowl-shaped course, with judging based on the complexity, height, and smoothness of their manoeuvres). Want to hop on a skateboard? City Skate Tours offers a fun way to see the city on board and wheels with their Johannesburg Skate Tour that kicks off at Curiocity Backpackers in Maboneng, taking you on a three-hour adventure through some of the city’s historic neighbourhoods, including Maboneng, Marshalltown, and Newtown. Tours run on Tue, Thu, and Sat from 10:00 – 13:00, and the cost includes all necessary gear, such as a skateboard and safety equipment.
No prior experience? No problem. The tour begins with a beginner-friendly skate lesson, so whether you're a complete novice or just looking to refine your skills, you’ll be well taken care of. Just wear comfortable closed shoes – so leave the flops, Crocs, or open-toe shoes at home. If you’re under 18, be sure to bring an adult along. So, hit the pavement and start your skateboarding journey while exploring the city.
Skateistan South Africa provides an exciting blend of skateboarding and education at their skate school in New Doornfontein. Catering to children aged five to 17, their unique programmes run from Mon – Fri, with girls-only sessions every Tue and Sat. Focusing on empowering youth, particularly girls and children from low-income backgrounds, Skateistan combines arts-based classes and skateboarding, offering a fun and impactful way for young people to grow both on and off the board.
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