Winter boasts a number of sports activities to get you outdoors, enjoying the change of weather and to help you get into or stay in shape. Many outdoors sport activities are family-friendly and cost-effective. Appropriate winter clothing ensures that you are comfortable and protected when venturing outdoors.
Snowshoeing
Snowshoeing dates back 6,000 years in central Asia. The sport, once solely for survival or employment, is now a popular form of winter recreation. Among the least expensive winter sports, snowshoeing is easily mastered. With a little practice, anyone who can walk can snowshoe. Poles, which are optional, offer extra support and increase your ability to keep your balance. Rental snowshoes are widely available, and any snow-covered public land is open to snowshoeing -- making this an affordable winter activity. Snowshoeing at 2.9 mph in hilly terrain burns up to 774 calories per hour for women and up to 1,046 calories per hour for men. Wear a polypropylene top and bottom base layer against your skin; cover that with a wind-barrier layer. Fleece layers add extra insulation.
Downhill Skiing
Alpine or downhill skiing is an exciting sport that challenges your balance, coordination and confidence and fosters a love of the outdoors. At ski resorts throughout the world, skiers can use their own equipment or rent from the facility. Skiers ride the chair lifts to the mountaintop and ski back down. Wear a polypropylene base layer, an insulating layer, such as fleece, and a wind barrier to provide protection from the cold. Helmets, goggles and gloves offer added protection.
Cross-Country Skiing
Cross-country skiing is a full-body workout, burning 511 calories per hour for a 160-lb. person. All of your muscles work together to achieve and maintain a high level of cardiovascular fitness. Cross-country skiing is affordable and family-friendly. Make it a family activity by putting small children in a backpack or sled. Both children and adults enjoy the wonderful scenery and the experience of cross-country skiing. Natural body movements make the learning curve manageable, and you can move at your own pace and comfort level. Wear a polypropylene base layer and wind barrier; bring an extra fleece layer for warmth.
Ice Skating
A person weighing 160 lb. burns 511 calories per hour when skating. Ice-skating clubs and competitions were established informally as early as the middle of the 19th century. In 1921, the U.S. Figure Skating Association was formed. Figure skating challenges your balance, strength and coordination. Outdoor ice rinks are a fun winter venue for families. Commercial ice rinks offer skate rentals and lessons. Bring gloves, a hat and warm clothing with you when you go skating.
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