Evolving Into Your Winter Routine

How to keep your edge for summer activities by trying something new this winter

I think it’s safe to say that the warmer days are behind us - we’ve had our first snowfall, the golf courses are closing for the season, and I’ve officially packed away my camping gear. 

This summer in Calgary had a bit of everything: an active June with our Step Challenge, an unusually rainy July, and a beautiful (yet buggy!) August to wrap up. Personally, I’m more of a summer person, and I’ve been reflecting on how to carry over the extra movement I enjoyed into the winter when I’m usually much less motivated to get outside.

My first stop is, of course, the studio for my strength training. With some recent travel, I didn’t always get my usual two sessions per week in, so this is my #1 priority as I set up my schedule. I love the flexibility of mixing in-studio and virtual sessions, it keeps me consistent no matter what the week looks like.

Once you’ve got your strength training locked in, winter is a great time to try some “cross-training” activities that keep your body moving and your skills sharp. Here are some of my favourites:

1. Golf → Curling or Indoor Golf Simulators

• Curling offers similar intensity with a focus on precision, strategy, and balance.

• Indoor golf simulators keep your swing sharp all winter. We had a blast at the Heritage Pointe Launch Pad for our staff holiday party!

  
  

2. Cycling → Spin Classes

• Spin is an excellent indoor substitute for road cycling, matching intensity without the winter chill or icy roads! 

3. Tennis or Pickleball → Squash or Racquetball

• Can’t seem to find open indoor court time for pickle ball? These fast-paced racquet sports sharpen hand-eye coordination, footwork, and agility indoors. Want something a little more slow-paced? Badminton is a great alternative! 

4. Hiking → Winter Hiking or Snowshoeing

• Icy sidewalks can be more danger than they’re worth, but with microspikes or snowshoes, you’ll feel secure on the trails. Nose Hill has some stunning routes in the winter!

5. Paddleboarding → Cross-Country Skiing

• Cross-country skiing builds balance, endurance, and strong stabilizing muscles- the same ones that keep you upright on a paddleboard. You’ll be feeling the burn in your triceps, hip flexors, and core! 

I hope these “cross-training” ideas can help to tamper back any winter woes and keep you active during the shorter days. See you on the cross-country skiing trails soon!