Between swinging a baseball bat like Babe Ruth and scaling heights like Spiderman, shopping malls can be your latest fun workout space, providing endless hours of family time. It won't just improve your overall health but give the kids a whale of a time skating, rock climbing, shooting arrows and more. So go on, take the afternoon off and spend it with the kids, at a mall nearest you.
Sci-fi enthusiasts will appreciate a game of laser tag at Galactic Laser. Laser tag is played as paintball but minus the bruises. And unlike video games, laser tag isn't sedentary and requires some running in a multi-level labyrinth-like arena. If you have reservations about the ‘laser’ aspect, fret not. The transmitter is as safe as a television remote control. Be warned though; don’t wear white. You can find Galactic Laset at Sunway Pyramid as well.
Petrosains seeks to encourage interactive learning. The discovery centre has regular as well as seasonal thematic exhibits in the scientific and technological disciplines like chemistry, physics, geosciences, innovation, aerospace and a particular focus on the oil and gas industry. Once your child starts having a go at the interactive display and activities, they will be so enthralled by the wonders of science that it may be hard to drag them away.
Aquaria KLCC lets you enjoy the wonders of the ocean and marine life without getting wet. The aquarium is very informative with staff available to assist whenever necessary. Exhibits include a touch pool where kids can get up close and personal with sea creatures, a 90-metre transparent tunnel, and the Aquatheatre where feeding session (including sharks and giant stingrays) take place. On the way out, don’t forget to drop by Aquazone for a fish spa treatment.
If you happen to be in Bangsar Shopping Centre, let your child loose in the jungle-themed indoor playground, Jungle Gym. True to its theme, the entire play area is decorated with faux-vines, animal murals and hanging stuffed monkeys. Featuring the usual equipment like slides and ball pools, Jungle Gym now also has an in-line skating rink for kids to rollerblade. But more interestingly, there are also rope swings and trampoline. The young ones will definitely be happy albeit slightly exhausted.
It’s a common sight to see budding figure skaters training at Pyramid Ice. But even if your kids are amateurs or just want to give ice skating a try, Pyramid Ice is open for all. Just bear in mind that while ice-skating may seem easy, it requires certain muscle coordination to stay upright. But once the kids (or you) get the hang of it, gliding across the ice will be effortless.
Available in several outlets across Malaysia, the archery range is open to experienced archers as well as keen first timers. Bows are provided, catering to different needs like age and handedness. Lift the bow, work those pectoral muscles and aim for the bull’s eye. Getting it right on the first try can be a bit of a challenge, so make use of their free coaching service, give it several more tries and that round yellow centre is yours to claim.
What the doctor says: Promotes hand eye coordination, good for mental training through judgment of distance. Also improves upper body strength and strength of limbs.
Your child can be Spiderman at Camp 5, the rock climbing gym in 1 Utama. Enrol them in Cicak Club for lessons by expert climbers. Don't be concerned by the gym’s rugged interior as the floor is well padded and safety marshals are always at hand. If you think rock climbing is reserved for a certain type, you couldn’t be more wrong. A line-dancing grandmother has done it as well. So join your child and maybe you’ll gain more than just upper body strength.
If you want to work on that Babe Ruth homerun, It’s A Hit! Batting Cages is the place to go. As a sport, batting helps develop hand-eye coodination, arm muscles as well as reaction skills. It’ll take some time to get into the swing of things but persevere and soon the whole family will be thwacking balls like a pro.
A hole in one is a rare feat, but as the saying goes, ‘practice makes perfect’. City Golf provides an avenue to train with their Full Swing Golf simulators, which recreates the topography of famous golf courses around the world. Dads and mums can work on their handicaps while kids can give golf a try. The teaching academy also provides personal, group and junior lessons. Even if you are a seasoned golfer, they can still help improve your swing.
What the doctor says: Builds self confidence and hand eye coordination. Trains mind through mental judgements and improves ability to make intelligent estimates.
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