Those languid Parisians are now real fitness freaks (although they still manage to balance things out with a fine respect for indulgence). Gyms and fitness clubs are a penny a barrel, the parks are rife with cardio bunnies and adventure sports are trés chic.

boating

On an airy summer's day get onto the cool of the water - float down the Seine (or the Marne, the Oise or any of the city's canals) in a canal boat. Rentals are available year-round.

skating

Paris has a thing for skating - hire some inlines and join the crowds in the city's parks. In winter the Patinoire du Parvis de la Défense and Patinoire de l'Hôtel de Ville bring ice skating into the public arena.

bowling

One of the best bowling alleys in Paris, Bowling de Paris, can be found in the Bois de Boulogne.

gym

Yes, the work-out craze has hit even tobacco-stained Parisians; there's now a gaggle of gyms in every neighbourhood.

swimming

Public swimming pools abound in Paris - for large-scale splashing check out the Aquaboulevard water park.