Fun Things In Winter

Many people do not look forward to winter, preferring instead to hibernate inside with books, games or movies until the spring arrives. Winter, however, provides opportunities for outdoor fun activities with some investments in sporting equipment and prior training. If you get your blood pumping and your body burning calories, you will forget all about the cold.

  1. Downhill Skiing

    • Skiing down a hill recently christened with a light dusting of snow under the beaming rays of the sun connects one with the majestic beauty of nature. Downhill or alpine skiing is also quite rewarding for thrill-seekers and speed demons. Those who have mastered the basics can tackle daredevil-like black diamond expert hills or the more technically-challenging moguls. For those who have never skied, practice on the beginner or "Bunny Hill" will improve confidence.

    Skating

    • Skating is one of the least expensive sports there is as all it requires is the purchase of a decent-fitting pair of skates. Once you have mastered the basics of skating forward and learning how to stop, there is nothing more liberating than gliding along a frozen pond or lakeside rink. Further, a 150-pound person can burn 600 calories an hour while skating.

      As skating is a sport that requires strength, stamina and balance, interim exercises such as yoga, strength training or cardio work will improve your skating skills.

    Snow Tubing

    • Snow tubing involves sitting inside a professionally manufactured inner tube, and being pushed down a hill. For more thrills, a tubing guide will rotate your inner tube at take-off so that you slide down the hill spinning 360 degrees. Individuals can conquer hills in groups of three interlocked inner tubes by grasping the handles of each other's inner tube as they descend the hill. Drag your feet to stop the tube, then ride the lift back up the hill for more rides.

    Cross-Country Skiing

    • Cross-country or Nordic skiing provides more vigorous exercise than downhill skiing, while allowing the participant to enjoy winter's beauty along wooded trails or across open fields. Cross country skiing is fairly easy to learn and individuals who engage in aerobic activity such as running or roller-blading should have no trouble picking up this sport. Required equipment includes cross country skis with attached bindings, specially-made boots that attach to the skis and cross-country ski poles. Trail fees cost between $5 and $25.