(NC)-Whether ice and snow make your eyes sparkle or leave you cold, with a little imagination you can stay active when the mercury plummets. (If you’re heading outdoors, remember to wear a hat even on moderate days. And if it’s very cold, breathe through a balaclava or scarf.)
• Take to the trails. Consider taking a lesson in cross-country skiing or snowshoeing. Both activities have a low impact on your knees, yet work the whole body and can burn an incredible 480 calories per hour even at a relatively relaxed pace. Many winter resorts, ski clubs and provincial parks offer equipment rentals as well as instructions.
• Play in the snow. Build a snowman or a snow-fort, or make snow angels. Or challenge the neighbours to a game of ‘snow-pitch’.
• Don’t forget your shovel. That snowy sidewalk has to be cleared anyway, so why not turn shovelling into an impromptu workout? Shovelling snow requires as much energy (read: burns as many calories) as running at 15 km per hour. A fully-loaded shovel can weigh up to 25 pounds. But you can minimize the strain on your muscles and joints and still get a great work out by taking your time and stretching before hand.
• Discover exercise DVDs. Borrow some beginner’s exercise DVDs from the library (tai chi, stretching and lowimpact aerobics are all great options that don’t require lots of gear). When you find one that suits you, invest in your own copy.
• Sign up for swimming, dancing or tai chi. Many community centres and pools offer low-cost lessons and exercise classes. Some gyms and dance studios also offer seasonal discounts.
