How to Find a Gym to Play Basketball

[Wickd89]

OK. I accept that I am no longer a goodlooking nor am I in shape. So I think back to the day when I was somebody and try to recall what kept me in shape: BASKETBALL.

So now I have decided to find a gym that I can use at least one or two evenings a week to run the courts again. I have gathered 8-12 people and now I NEED A GYM!

Without calling every establishment (which I started doing) that has a gym (schools, parks, churches, ymca's, etc), DOES ANYONE KNOW THE BEST WAY TO FIND A GYM. I am in Orange County and I am looking for something in Tustin/Santa Ana/Irvine/etc.........

HELP.

[PatrickB]

Most 24 Hour Fitness "Sport" Centers have them. The one I go to in Brea has basketball...

[the]

Yeah, the best way to play BB on a regular basis is to join a gym. They have pickup games going constantly. Be warned, though, be ready to bring your "A" game, at least during prime hours. Esp. in areas like LA or OC, I'd imagine.

[911pcars]

Finding a gym is very difficult. Playing outdoors is the pits unless you like road rash, but it works if you must. I think your best bet is to inquire at a local school district or a private school. A gym teacher friend might have some pull (and keys). Some churches may have facilities to rent. It helps if you're already a member of the congregation or on speaking terms with Magic Johnson.

Rec and Parks are usually booked unless you can locate a friendly park director and play late at night. Prices will vary.

I still play a game that sorta resembles bball every week. Been doing it for the past 20 years. We have an ever-evolving group of 10-13 guys that kick in the quarterly fee that LAUSD charges. It's about $35/hr. in L.A. The skill level of our group isn't too wide; it's still fun and challenging for the guys who play. On some nights, the game points (usually 10 buckets) exceed the number of turnovers. It's also an excellent workout to augment the time in front of the tube.

Pickup games are fine if you have the time. If you play like me, you'll end up waiting a long time after your team loses. If you bring 10 buddies to a typical p/u game, don't expect a welcome mat unless they're hurting for bodies.

And if you happen to be in the Pasadena area sometime, let me know if you want to play.

Good luck with the search,
Sherwood

[Porsche-O-Phile]

I've sort of wondered this too. I haven't played in years but used to enjoy just going and shooting a few. There are some outdoor courts near the Belmont Shores area that don't get too trashy, but they can get VERY crowded, so I typically avoid them. I wonder if any of the local CCs or schools have open court nights or anything. . .

[widebody911]

I play 1 - 5 times a week at work, or occasionally I'll switch to sand volleyball for a day or two.

[lendaddy]

We rent grade school gyms, stop in the office and inquire.

[Wickd89]

Well we decided to start on an outdoor court this morning and then move on to a gym once we sort that out.

I started calling the private schools and community colleges and all seem to have facilities to offer so I will continue to sort that out.

Thanks for the comments!!

[lendaddy]

Public schools also rent gym time.

[mikester]

I know there are basketball leagues down there. A coworker of mine who lives in that area used to play in one at a 24 hour fitness. He was in Rancho Santa Margarita - if you like I can find out where he was playing.

[Tobra]

Will you guys please stretch before and after these games.

Oh, and if you are 35-45, are jumping, hear a pop, it feels like someone hit you in the calf, and you have making your foot work right after, you ruptured your Achilles Tendon. See it a fair amount on weekend warriors in that age group.

[Wickd89]

Well went out for a run at the hoops today. First time in over 4 years, and it was great. I am exhausted but love that 1 hour of play turned into 3 hours -Just what I expected: the love of the game overrides my physical limits.

Can't wait to tell you all that in three months, I have joined a league and I have lost 25 pounds.........

[911pcars]

Good for you.

The best thing about a good workout is the beer afterwards to unwind.

Sherwood

[Wickd89]

True. But that was part of the reason I got this way..

I followed it up with a Jamba Juice and it was cool.

[Sonic dB]

is there a YMCA in your area? also you are in CA just play outdoors

[Wickd89]

YMCA is a good idea.
We do, and did, play outside.

Nothing beats a gym. Easier to play longer, later, etc..