Getting in the Know about Getting Outside this Winter
By Karlyn O'Hanley, NSEN Journalism Volunteer
For a lot of us growing up in Canada playing outside in the winter just came with the territory. Back in the eighties we’d pull on our neon snowsuits and hopefully find someone with a GT Snow Racer then spend hours outside sledding and making snow forts. It rarely seemed too cold for outdoor fun as kids. Then somewhere in between elementary school and adulthood we swapped outdoor fun for adult responsibilities and cozy winter couch sessions.
Getting outside and being active during any season can enhance our physical, mental and emotional wellbeing. There’s a strong connection between spending time in nature and improved moods, reduced stress and enhanced sleep. Not to mention the calories burned and possible social benefits of engaging in activities. Whether it’s heading outside for an after-supper skate session or hitting up a new hiking spot with friends, we've put together some helpful tips on getting in the know about getting outside this winter.
Start a schedule
Schedule outdoor fun. Sounds strange to prioritize fun but as adults, our participation in outdoor physical activity tends to drop off. Other things come on the radar and take our time: family responsibilities, work and chores. Play, all too often gets pushed down the list of priorities. Yes, you read it right, play. By designating time in our calendars for weekly outdoor activities we’ll be reminded and more likely to actually do it. Start small. Tell yourself you’re only going to go outside for fifteen minutes. Create a schedule that works for your lifestyle and interests. This could begin with after supper walks, sledding with friends or a weekend hike with a local group.
Warm and prepared
You’ll want to be prepared and comfortable so think layers, waterproof and non-slip. Starting out there’s no need to buy equipment, opt to rent, borrow and then consider buying used equipment as you’re starting out and figure out what activities you’re passionate about.
If you’re buying new, think about social responsibility and look for brands that give back by supporting outdoor education and conservation programs. An essential for all activities is footwear. Make sure it’s appropriate and in good condition. Before you start, remind yourself that you’re trying something new. Be kind to yourself and have fun. Remember to pace yourself and gradually increase your activity to avoid injury.
Like it, like it a lot
People are successful in becoming and staying more active if they enjoy what they're doing. If you’re doing a solo activity and it’s safe, put your earbuds in and listen to your favorite playlist. Dance as you walk, like no one’s watching and if they are you’ll no doubt put a smile on their face.
3 Activities to try this winter
Trail and coastal hiking
Think of hiking as a gateway for outdoor enthusiasts. It has the lowest cost threshold and in our beautiful province the locations for hiking are limitless. As your outdoor skills and fitness improve you can scale up your activities. Adapt your new passion to other activities like snowshoeing, geocaching, nature photography, and foraging.
Ice-Skating
Typically, all skaters start out in figure skates. Figure skates have a thick and long blade with a toe pick on the front. Hockey skates have a narrower blade which is rounded at both ends. Skates should fit snug for best support with toes touching the end of the skate, but not crunched. Make sure to loosen laces all the way down the boot to allow your foot in.
Safety matters when we’re on the ice. A hockey helmet is best for both hockey and skating because it’s made for the kind of falls that happen when we’re on the ice. You can even protect your elbows and knees with padding. It’s best to dress in layers, it’s a good way to be able to adjust for comfort. Be careful not to wear clothing that’s restrictive and remember your gloves. Public skating is available at the Emera Oval in Halifax and local arenas across the province.
Snowshoeing
This is a great beginner friendly snow day activity for all ages and ability levels to enjoy. Nova Scotia has a wide variety of accessible trails and parks to explore. Things to keep in mind if you’re leaving easy snowshoeing trails is you’ll need to learn how to go up and down hills, traverse slopes, use your poles and how to get up after you fall in deep snow.
You can borrow snowshoes for free or buy second hand. Make sure to select snowshoes that are right for your weight, the terrain and the snow conditions.
You’ll still need to wear warm, waterproof boots to fit into the snowshoes. It’s best to dress in layers with clothing that can breathe.
Slide into some fun
Go sledding! Make a sled out of cardboard and duct tape or borrow one from a neighbor. Take your pick of sledding spots as Halifax is known for its steep hills. Bring along a thermos of steeped tea or hot apple cider for a warm treat. Alternatively, you can kick it back to grade school and invite a group of friends over for a friendly snowball fight. Or take it up a notch and set up a target to play a game of snowball darts.
For those with backyards and in walking distance to parks, peek around for animal footprints in the snow. You can take your camera along, capture the tracks and later go online to identify them.
Social Media and Outdoor Activities
If you want to amplify your outdoor experience, go online. There are apps like AllTrails that are designed to guide explorers to trails or Cairn which has a safety feature to set an emergency contact. This app is great, you load in your hike, expected return time and the app alerts your contact if you don’t return on time. An inclusive app to try is Mountain Hub. Skiers, bikers and backpackers can all use this app. You’ll find real time weather updates, wildlife encounters, and trail conditions. By now you’re probably blocking time in your schedule tomorrow to get outside. Even a fifteen-minute brisk walk at lunch can do so much for your day. Rent, borrow and buy used equipment as you start out and learn what activities you enjoy doing, take it slow.
See what’s happening locally, download a new outdoor app and check out some of the helpful content available on YouTube. Pick activities that you will have the opportunity and motivation to enjoy on a regular basis. You don’t need to alter your lifestyle for your new activity. Just pick something that aligns nicely with your lifestyle and personal interests.
Have fun out there!
Sources
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Harta, Katie. (March 19, 2019 3:37 p.m.) Women Who Explore group launches in Halifax. HalifaxToday.ca.
https://www.halifaxtoday.ca/local-news/women-who-explore-group-launches-in-halifax-132946 2
Thompson J. Coon; Boddy, K.; Stein, K; Whear, R; Barton, J; and Depledge M.H.(Feb. 3, 2011). Does Participating in Physical Activity in Outdoor Natural Environments Have a Greater Effect on Physical and Mental Wellbeing than Physical Activity Indoors? A Systematic Review. Environ. Sci. Technol. 2011, 45, 5, 1761–177.2
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