Written By: Katrina Finnigan
The snow may be falling and that may be more than enough of a reason to put some of us into hibernation. During the winter months the same old gym routine can make even the best of us a little stir crazy. The falling snow, cold temperatures, and need to layer can definitely make it easy to curl up on the couch – but there are ways to embrace the cold weather and still manage to break a sweat.
1. Lace Up Your Skates
Skating is a great way to amp up your cardio and enjoy the effects of the cooler temperatures. This Canadian staple is an easy and fun way to brush up on your skills, help balance, coordination, and tone muscle. Whether you are just learning to skate or have been skating for years – there is a program for you. Carleton Athletics offers several learn-to-skate programs for both children and adults. These programs will teach you the fundamentals of skating from forwards to backwards, and everything you need to be able to skate your way down the Canal.
For those who have been skating for years – it is always nice to freshen up on those core skills and toning moves. Conditioning classes help you to break a sweat and become even more comfortable on the ice. With work on speed, turns, edges, and stops – you’ll be in top shape to practice your figure skating movies or show off your skills at your next pick-up game.
2. Join A League
Although hockey leagues often run all year round – the cool weather, NHL season, and ability to get in some practice at your local park are always motivators to gear up and get out there. Joining a hockey league can be a fun and competitive way to enjoy all the benefits of a skating, conditioning, and hand-eye coordination. Carleton offers adult leagues, recreational leagues, intermural leagues, and camps for a variety of ages, skill levels, and price points.
Leagues and recreation are a great way of brushing up on your skills, but also for meeting new friends and teammates both in-and-out of the ice house. Between the ice house, your local rinks, and the canal – you can rest assured that even on the most bitter-cold days, you and your team can pick up some ice time.
3. Walk it off
If skating, hockey, and the cold in general isn’t your thing – there are still options available to you! Walking and hiking clubs have always been popular in the Ottawa area. For those of us who are a little less athletically inclined, walking is a great way to clear your mind, take a break, and even chat it out with friends. So don’t let the slippery sidewalks and blustery winds stop you. Although walking through several feet of snow can be a great way to break a sweat, the Fieldhouse is open to those who need the escape without having to worry about the cool winds or drone of the treadmill. To read more about the benefits of walking, click here.
Overall, whether or not you love the cool crisp winter air, or prefer to find alternatives to keep up your favourite summer activities – there is sure to be an option for you. Test your balance and try to embrace a winter activity, the winter months may seem long – but winter fun is limitless.
