Oh, come on. Get up off the couch. Dig yourself out from under the layers of blankets and switch off the t.v., even if it is your favorite show. Winter may be drab, but we've no excuse to pout!
Perhaps now would be a good time to take advantage of winter sports! Thirty minutes of being outside is guaranteed to boost your immune system, to say nothing of your spirits, even if it is under a cloudy sky.
If you're having trouble figuring out what to do, try one of the following. I suggest trying one per week, just to keep things spicy.
To get outdoors and take advantage of the season (and why not live today for today instead of constantly waiting for something "better" or "warmer"?), try the following:
1. Ice-skating: Whether outside or in a rink, ice-skating burns an average of 450 calories per hour and works all the major muscles in your lower body, as well as your core! One hour on the ice, and you pretty much know you're going to feel it tomorrow. Oh, the sweet, sweet burn...
2. Snowshoeing: Burns an average of 500 calories per hour, and you get to nature-watch at the same time. Of course, those of us in the South will have a harder time than our Northern friends finding opportunities, but then again, we don't necessarily have to give up our hiking, running, and biking either, so I guess we shouldn't complain. (Cleveland friends: the Metroparks offers instruction and guided tours. If you want information, just let me know!)
3. Shovel snow: Take 440 calories burned per hour and throw in great core and upper body strengthening and shoveling snow suddenly doesn't sound so bad. Add a safe and clean walkway and drive to that, and it can't be beat! Just remember to wear gloves, and if the going gets tough think about someone who's pissing you off.
4. Play in the snow: Really play and you'll burn 400 calories before you know it. Grab all the fixin' for a snowman (or snowlady) and get going. Just move around until you're warm and then don't stop moving until you're finished playing! If you decide to make a snow-angel, think jumping-jacks. Walk to a local hill (take a sled!) and slide down! Then do it again. And again! Do it until you're exhausted, and don't forget to take your kids (young or old). You'll create a great memory and get fit while doing it!
5. Play shinny: This is a game much like hockey, only played on the street, without protective gear, and minus all fancy equipment. Chalk on the road or use anything on hand to mark the goals. Use brooms or hockey sticks - hell, use a tree branch if that's all you have. Use a ball, use a puck, use a crushed Coke can for all I care - just play! If you're not sure of a rule, make it up...
So, do you want to be the type of person who does something and has fun? If so, try each of these ideas once and see what happens! I dare you.
Please leave comments about your experiences!
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