Simple fitness tips for snowy weather

12/29/08 Posted in Cover Story Lisa Marie Meltzer  |  1 Comment

C’mon. Let’s be honest here. That big pile of snow in the front yard is awfully inviting, isn’t it? You know you want to jump in it just like when you were a kid. There’s a lot of fun (and calorie burning) to be had in the fluffy white stuff. So, forget you were on the naughty list last year and start this year on the nice list with some snow fitness!

Baby, it’s Cold Outside Nothing puts a damper on a day outside than feeling cold and wet from not dressing properly. Layering is the key to comfort. Start with a thin layer of synthetic fibers (not cotton) to keep the moisture away from the body. The next layer should provide insulation but be lightweight and dry quickly, like fleece or a sweatshirt. The last layer should be a coat and snow pants that will protect you from the elements. Don’t forget to protect your hands and feet. Choose gloves or mittens that wick away moisture and wool socks to keep your toes cozy and warm.

Build Your Dream Igloo What better way to make use of all that snow! Get the crew involved and build a fun place to share Eskimo kisses. You can get as elaborate as you want with it. A snow spade and snow saw (or carpenter saw) for the adults or for a more family friendly igloo, you can use snow block makers sold at Amazon and other retailers. If you want to get even more creative, add some color by filling spray bottles with food coloring and “paint” your igloo. Remember to carve out a ventilation hole. For some basic instructions visit pbskids.org/nova/denaili/igloo.html.

Luge Like an Olympian  If sledding is child’s play for you then make your reservation for a lesson to luge at Muskegon’s Winter Sports Complex. You’ll receive 15 minutes of instructions and then hit the run. If you do well with the lessons you could advance to the Grimmitte Peak where speeds of over 40 mph can be reached. You must be 48 inches tall and 8 years old to participate. Proof of health insurance and a waiver are required. The cost is $40 for adults and $35 for kids 8 -18. Visit msports.org/luge.htm.

Go Fly a Kite!  Or attach your snowboard to one. Snow kite-boarding is currently the hottest winter sport.  Foil or blimp kites are hooked to a harness and attached to your waist. You can cruise along a wide open space like an open, flat field or a frozen snow covered lake. The power of the wind gives experienced riders “big air” jumps of up to 40 feet off horizontal terrain. One of the reasons it is gaining popularity is it’s relatively easy to find a frozen lake or open field versus waiting in long lines for the chair lifts and maneuvering among the crowded slopes at the ski resorts. There’s a lot more freedom to get creative with the open spaces. Lessons are a must and knowledge of the wind and how it affects your ground speed and kite power is essential. Learn more about snow kiting at www.kitemare.com or www.realkiteboarding.com. Check with your local ski/snowboard shop for instructors and equipment in your area.

Hit the Slopes on the Cheap If you’ve ever been curious about skiing, snowboarding or cross-country skiing but didn’t know where to start, sign up for the Discover Michigan Skiing program. This program runs from January 5 – 31. For $30 (adults) and $25 (kids 7 to 14) you’ll receive a lesson that covers basic maneuvering skills, equipment rental and a ski lift pass or cross-country pass. Snowboarding is $40 for everyone 10 years and older. Visit goskimichigan.com/discovermichigan.pdf for the voucher and a list of the 24 participating ski areas near you.

Sign up for a 10K! Cross-country ski race that is. The 33rd National White Pine Stampede will take place on February 7th. It starts at the Mancelona High School and finishes at the Shanty Creek Resort & Club. There’s still time to register for the 10K, 20K or 40K. Check out www.whitestampede.org for more information.

One More Thing…

The winter chill can alter your thirst sensation because you don’t feel hot or sweaty like in warmer conditions, so make sure to keep hydrated. Force yourself to drink even if you’re not thirsty. If you’re going to be outside for awhile, take some trail mix, energy bars, bananas, chocolate or peanut butter sandwiches to replace carbohydrate stores that are being used for exercise and warming. 

If you can, take a break and eat something hot. This will help warm the body better than eating cold foods. Now you’re ready. 

Go have fun in the snow!