The Real Chic Life

How are you doing? I know many people are feeling anxious and overwhelmed about current events. I hope the Super Bowl was a pleasant reprieve, but if you need some motivation to lift your spirits this week, re-visit Tonya’s post on How to Thrive this year (it’s a must read) and check out this thoughtful post by Joanna Goddard that links to a helpful e-guide about things we can do right now. Above all, don’t forget to take care of yourself. Self-care is essential for managing stress. Get enough sleep, drink water, go outside, and move your body. On the Sephora Giveaway, we asked what people do or want to start doing for self-care, and the desire to start an exercise routine has been one of the most common responses. If you’re looking for a new way to stay active, have fun, or challenge yourself, trying out a new sport could be a great option. Starting a new sport can feel intimidating, but the good news is that many sports are beginner-friendly and easy to pick up at any age. Embracing a sport is not only good for your body and your mind, it can also be incredibly chic. Here are 5 Beginner friendly sports to try:

Swimming – Low-Impact & Full-Body Workout

Swimming is an excellent workout that’s easy on the joints and great for all fitness levels. It strengthens muscles, improves cardiovascular health, and helps with flexibility—all while being a fun way to cool off during the warmer months.

Why It’s Chic: Nothing says effortless elegance like gliding through the water in a sleek, one-piece swimsuit and donning oversized sunglasses between laps. Whether you’re doing laps at your local pool or floating in an infinity pool at a resort, swimming has an undeniably sophisticated vibe. Bonus points for a classic poolside coverup and a post-swim hydrating face mist!

How to Get Started:

Step 1- Find a local pool or community center that offers swim lanes or classes.

Step 2- If you’re new to swimming, consider taking beginner lessons to build confidence.

Step 3- Start with basic strokes like freestyle and backstroke.

Cycling – A Fun Way to Explore & Stay Fit

Cycling is a low-impact sport that strengthens your legs, improves cardiovascular endurance, and can be done solo or with a group. Whether on a stationary bike, a road bike, or a mountain bike, it’s a fantastic way to stay active.

Why It’s Chic: Picture yourself pedaling through a charming city in a sleek activewear set, a stylish helmet, and a cute crossbody bag. Whether you’re commuting on a trendy city bike or cruising through scenic trails, cycling is an effortlessly cool way to stay fit and look good doing it. Think Emily in Paris, but with a wellness twist!

How to Get Started:

Step 1- Invest in a comfortable bike and helmet.

Step 2- Start with short, easy rides on flat terrain before trying hills or longer routes.

Step 3- Join a local cycling group or explore bike trails in your area.

Yoga – Strength, Flexibility & Mindfulness

While yoga is often seen as a stretching or relaxation practice, it’s actually an excellent sport for building strength, improving flexibility, and enhancing mental well-being. It’s also great for reducing stress and improving balance.

Why It’s Chic: Yoga blends wellness with fashion like no other sport. Luxe yoga mats, buttery-soft leggings with matching tops or jumpsuits make every session feel like a lifestyle statement. Whether you’re flowing in a sunlit studio or stretching on the beach at sunrise, yoga embodies the balance of beauty, grace, and mindfulness. Plus, there’s always an açai bowl or matcha latte waiting post-class. And if you can’t make it to a studio in person, there are plenty of virtual classes. My favorite way to practice yoga at home is to take Chelsea Jackson’s classes through the Peloton website or app- she’s so positive and uplifting.

How to Get Started:

Step 1- Follow online yoga videos or take a beginner-friendly class.

Step 2- Start with simple poses like downward dog, warrior pose, and child’s pose.

Step 3- Practice consistently, even for just 10–15 minutes a day.

Tennis (or Pickleball) – A Social & Engaging Sport

Tennis is an exciting sport that improves coordination, agility, and endurance. It’s also a fantastic way to socialize, as you can play singles or doubles with friends.

Why It’s Chic: Classic white tennis skirts, preppy polo tops, and sleek visors—tennis has long been the sport of icons like Serena Williams and Audrey Hepburn. Whether you’re playing doubles at a country club or casually rallying with a friend, tennis is the perfect blend of athleticism and style. Don’t forget to sip a refreshing iced tea courtside for the full experience.

How to Get Started:

Step 1- Rent or buy a basic tennis racket and a set of tennis balls, and find a local court.

Step 2- Take beginner lessons or practice hitting the ball against a wall.

Step 3- Start with casual rallies before moving into structured games.

If tennis seems too challenging, try pickleball instead— it’s incredibly beginner friendly and pickleball courts are starting to pop up everywhere.

Walking & Hiking – Simple, Free & Effective

Walking and hiking are some of the easiest and most accessible sports. They improve cardiovascular health, boost mood, and allow you to enjoy nature without needing any special equipment.

Why It’s Chic: Is there anything more chic than the beauty of the outdoors? Whether it’s a scenic hike with breathtaking views or a power walk through the city, walking and hiking gives you a full sensory experience to enjoy. A cute, matching workout set and a perfectly curated playlist are optional add-ons.

How to Get Started:

Step 1- Invest in comfortable walking shoes or hiking boots for longer treks.

Step 2- Start with daily walks around your neighborhood or a nearby park.

Step 3- Explore new trails and increase difficulty gradually for an added challenge. The AllTrails app is a great way to find nearby trails.

You don’t need to be a pro athlete to enjoy the benefits of sports. Whether you’re looking for something gentle like yoga or something more active like cycling, these five options are easy to start and perfect for any fitness level.

Is there a sport that you currently practice or want to try this year? Let me know in the comments. And if you just want to share how you’re feeling today I’d love to chat.

Xo,

Courtney