Ten ways to stay physically active this winter
Winter is here!!!! So what can you be doing to keep active and enjoy each and every winter day. Let’s explore what you can be doing for 30 minutes, 5 days a week. Ottawa has so much to offer …
Check out their website for more information on winter trails available: https://ncc-ccn.gc.ca/places/gatineau-park-visitor-information
Ten ways to stay physically active this winter
1) Get outside for a walk:
Bundle up with plenty of layers and head out while the sun is shinning for a beautiful winter walk. You can keep it simple and go around your neighborhood or you can explore different trails around your city. Ottawa’s got some excellent walking trails that come with “wintery” scenery. Here are just a few walking trails in and around Ottawa you can try:
- Old Quarry Trail (1.9km or 2.7km)
- Jack Pine Trail (about 3.1km)
- Mer Bleue (many different trails)
- Beaver Pond Trail (2.0km)
- Gatineau Park has four winter trails: Capital Pathway (1.6km), Pioneers Trail (1.3km), Laurialt Trail (4.5km), Sugarbush Trail (3km).
Check out their website for more information on winter trails available: https://ncc-ccn.gc.ca/places/gatineau-park-visitor-information
2. Snowshoeing:
With the large amounts of snow we get here, snowshoeing can be an excellent alternative to walking. Head out with a friend even if it’s just a quick half hour, I would highly recommend going in the morning after a big snow fall. If you’re someone that tends to lose your balance, try using a pair of poles.
3. Go to a mall or a museum and get those steps in:
If it’s just a little too cold out or ice is covering the sidewalks head out to your local mall or even a museum. Walking through the mall can absolutely get your steps in… although you may want to leave the wallet at home. A museum is another great option, find one that interests you and try to go through the whole museum (Most free to enter Thursday evenings in Ottawa after 5pm).
4. Cross-country skiing:
If you’re really looking for a good workout try cross-country skiing. There are plenty of beautiful trails around Ottawa. Start slow and go with a friend. You can even rent a pair of skis at Mooney’s Bay.
5. Find an indoor pool:
Check out the City of Ottawa public pools and try out an open or lane swim. Or if you’re interested gives us a call at LiquidGym and try out our rehab/training programs here.
6. Skating along the canal or rink of dreams:
The Rideau Canal skateway goes directly through the centre of Ottawa and creates 7.8km skating rink. This winter you could set a goal to skate the entire length by the end of the season. The rink of dreams is another great option located right by City Hall, it’s nice and smooth and there’s always a beavertail truck near by for a post skate treat.
7. Walk along the canal:
If you’re not a big fan of skating there are always plenty of people enjoying a beautiful walk along the side of the canal.
8. Build a snowman:
Now this gives your legs and arms a good workout, plus you get a festive reward after. Just make sure to keep an upright posture and lift from your legs.
9. Shovel your driveway:
Now this gives your legs and arms a good workout, plus you get a festive reward after. Just make sure to keep an upright posture and lift from your legs.
10. Sign up for community online workouts/activities:
If it is too cold or being outdoors in the winter isn’t for you, try out an online workout or even a virtual session with a therapist at LiquidGym to get your body moving from home.
