Instinct tells us to move as little as possible in the heat, but there are some (relatively) cool ways to be active, either in air-conditioning or after dusk. Here are a few suggestions:
Lighted golf courses: East Bay Executive, lighted par 54, 702 Country Club Drive (off East Bay Drive), Largo. (727) 581-3333. . . . Terrace Hill, 7740 Temple Terrace Highway, Temple Terrace. (813) 985-4653. Many driving ranges and miniature golf courses are lighted for night play, but call ahead for hours.
Paintball: Fields can be hot places by day, but some, including Florida Paintball Center, 8228 Ulmerton Road, Largo, offer nighttime play. Call 727 538-9946 or www.thunderbaypaintball.com Shooting ranges: They offer training for beginners, practice opportunities for others. Among air-conditioned options: The Indoor Shooting Co., 9402 E Fowler Ave., Thonotosassa. (813) 986-5456; Knight Shooting Sports, 12000 U.S. 19 N, Pinellas Park. (727) 546-4447.
Climbing walls: Many gyms and YMCAs offer a chance to scale a rock wall indoors. Or check out Vertical Ventures Indoor Climbing Gym, 5404 Pioneer Park Blvd., Tampa. 813 884-7625 or www.verticalventures.com
Ice skating and roller skating rinks: These are plentiful. Check the Yellow Pages under "Skating rinks."
And don't forget: Evening walking and cycling, with appropriate safety gear; bowling, billiards, dancing, plus evening basketball and softball leagues at municipal playgrounds and rec centers. Call your local recreation department for details.
