Whether you're a die-hard sports enthusiast or simply seeking to boost your well-being, Los Angeles (LA) has something to offer you in the realm of sports and fitness. Whether you want to get in on some action or cheer on from the stands, you will find easy, flexible opportunities to indulge in your sports cravings. In this article, we outline the range of options available for watching and participating in your favorite sports events in Los Angeles.
Sports in Los Angeles
The city's sports culture is as diverse as its population, with a passionate following for various athletic endeavors. Here's a glimpse into the sports scene that keeps LA buzzing with excitement:
Football
Los Angeles is home to two NFL teams—the Los Angeles Rams and the Los Angeles Chargers—both of which play at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood. The Raiders have relocated and are now the Las Vegas Raiders. Game days become a festive affair, with fans donning jerseys and filling sports bars to catch the action.
Basketball
LA boasts a strong basketball presence, thanks to its two NBA teams—the Clippers and the Lakers. These teams play at the Crypto.com Arena (formerly Staples Center), alongside the WNBA's Sparks. The Clippers have recently moved to their own arena, the Intuit Dome in Inglewood, a stadium that also hosts live music and other events.
Soccer
The LA Galaxy, with its illustrious history and five MLS championships, calls the Dignity Health Sports Park home. Soccer enthusiasts can revel in the high-intensity matches and cheer for their favorite players on the pitch.
Hockey
The ice rinks of Los Angeles come alive when the local NHL teams—the Kings and the Ducks—take to the ice. These teams have a dedicated following, and attending a hockey game is an experience filled with fast-paced action and roaring crowds.
Car racing
For those needing speed, Los Angeles offers NASCAR tracks and Grand Prix arenas, where revving engines and screeching tires create an adrenaline-pumping atmosphere. The Grand Prix of Long Beach is a popular local event.
Horse racing
The sport of kings finds its place in LA with horse racing events that blend tradition and excitement. Local racetracks like Santa Anita Park and Los Alamitos Race Course both host events where spectators can watch majestic thoroughbreds thunder down the track.
Sporting venues in Los Angeles
The following is a rundown of the most popular sports centers in the city:
- Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum: Home to the USC Trojans and formerly the LA Rams, before they moved to SoFi Stadium.
- Dodger Stadium: Home to the Dodgers
- Honda Center: Hosts Anaheim events, Anaheim Ducks, and other sporting and non-sporting events
- Crypto.com Arena—formerly the Staples Center: The home court of many major teams, including the Lakers, Kings, Clippers, and Sparks.
- The Forum: Once home to the Lakers and other sports teams, it is now primarily used for non-sport events.
- Intuit Dome: New home of the Clippers in Inglewood
- Irwindale Event Center: Formerly the Irwindale Speedway, it hosts numerous motor vehicle racing events, including stock car racing, sprint cars, drag racing, motorcycles, monster trucks, and NASCAR.
Tickets for major professional games in Los Angeles typically start closer to $50–$70, though cheaper preseason seats can sometimes be found.
College sports in Los Angeles
In addition to pro teams, Los Angeles also has a thriving college athletics scene. It might surprise expats to discover that some university teams have fan followings as strong—or actually even stronger—than professional teams.
The University of Southern California (USC) Trojans and the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) Bruins (both football teams) are among the most competitive and prestigious college sports programs in the country. Their rivalry is renowned for its fierceness, and loyal fans will flock to watch the teams battle it out. Beyond football, both schools excel in basketball, track and field, and Olympic sports, regularly producing athletes who go on to compete at high levels. For students and visitors alike, attending a USC or UCLA game offers a classic LA sports experience, easily rivaling seeing the Rams or Chargers.
Sports and fitness activities in Los Angeles you can participate in
Los Angeles isn't just about being a spectator in sports and fitness; it's a city that encourages active participation and embraces a holistic approach to health and wellness. The city's vibrant fitness culture is evident in the myriad opportunities it offers for people to stay active and live a healthy lifestyle.
Gyms, fitness centers and studios
For those looking to break a sweat, LA is teeming with gyms and fitness centers catering to all levels of enthusiasts. From world-renowned establishments to local gems, there's a fitness facility for everyone. Whether you prefer high-intensity interval training, CrossFit, or traditional weightlifting, you'll find a gym tailored to your fitness goals.
Yoga
Yoga has become a staple of LA's wellness scene, with countless studios offering a variety of practices, from Vinyasa to Bikram. Many studios even host outdoor classes, allowing you to strike a pose against the backdrop of California's picturesque landscapes.
Rock climbing
If you're an adventure seeker, rock climbing and bouldering gyms dot the cityscape, providing opportunities for climbers of all levels. These indoor facilities offer a safe and controlled environment for honing your climbing skills before taking on the region's stunning outdoor climbing spots.
Bodybuilding
For those who crave the sunshine and ocean air, LA's iconic Muscle Beach in Venice is a must-visit. This outdoor fitness hub has been a haven for bodybuilders, gymnasts, and fitness enthusiasts since the 1930s. You can join a pickup game of beach volleyball, test your acrobatic skills on the rings, or simply soak in the electric atmosphere.
Rollerblading and skateboarding
Rollerblading and skateboarding are deeply ingrained in LA's culture, with an extensive network of skate parks and scenic paths for enthusiasts to glide through. Whether you're a novice or an experienced skater, you'll find the perfect spot to enjoy the thrill of rolling through the city.
What sets LA apart is its year-round favorable weather, which invites outdoor enthusiasts to explore the city's extensive network of hiking and biking trails. From the rugged terrain of Runyon Canyon to the serene beauty of Griffith Park, there's a trail for every fitness level and preference.
In Los Angeles, sports and fitness aren't just activities; they're a way of life. The city's commitment to health and wellness makes it a paradise for those seeking an active lifestyle, and its diverse range of options ensures that everyone can find their own path to fitness and well-being. So, lace up your sneakers, roll out your yoga mat, or grab your climbing shoes and dive into the dynamic world of sports and fitness in the City of Angels.
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