Five Boston Sports Leagues to Spice Up Your Workout Routine

Photograph by Julia Hopkins

No disrespect to your fitness instructor, but when’s the last time you had fun exercising? If you’re struggling to answer, it’s time for a change. Team sports such as flag football, field hockey, and even bike polo trick your body into getting a killer workout while your mind thinks it’s all fun and games. Whether you’re a former college ringer or a total beginner, there’s a league calling your name. Dust off those cleats and mouth guards—it’s time to play ball.

If you’re looking for love, join…

Simply Social Sports

Trust, commitment, dedication: these are traits you want not only in a teammate, but also in a soul mate. Find both at Simply Social Sports, a casual, coed league that encourages singles to keep the bonding going post-game at bars around the city. Choose among softball, kickball, and volleyball; pull on your most flattering gym shorts; and get ready to play the field.

Starting at $75 per season; 617-701-6243, s3boston.com.

If you don’t take an off-season, join…

Hub Sports

The fun shouldn’t stop when the temperature drops. In the winter, Hub Sports moves its flag football, soccer, and softball leagues indoors, so you can keep playing right on through to spring. Got sporty coworkers? Join a corporate league for a little team bonding any time of year.

Starting at $75 per season; 617-863-8300, hubsportsboston.com.

If you’re a retired MVP, join…

Boston Ski & Sports Club

Those aching to relive their glory days will find a mix of retired collegiate athletes and high school superstars at BSSC, which offers sports ranging from field hockey to ultimate Frisbee. Most leagues let you specify your skill level, so you’ll go head-to-head with plenty of worthy opponents.

Starting at $45 per season; 617-789-4070, bssc.com.

If you want a new challenge, join…

Boston Bike Polo

Ever had the urge to play hockey while riding a bike? Well, now you can. Boston Bike Polo offers free pickup matches on Sunday afternoons and beginner-friendly sessions on Wednesday evenings. Don’t worry if you don’t know the rules—yes, there are rules to this polo and hockey mash-up—but you should feel pretty comfortable on a bike to join.

Free; Smith Playground, 253 Western Ave., Allston, bostonbikepolo.us.

If you’re in it for the beer, join…

Social Boston Sports

As if you needed extra motivation to grab a post-match drink, most Social Boston Sports leagues have a sponsor bar, some of which offer food specials for SBS athletes. You’ll find all the usual sports—think soccer (pictured) and basketball—but true beer-league die-hards should try cornhole, with matches held in bars around town. What’s the score again?

Starting at $50 per season; 617-987-0602, socialbostonsports.com.