Published: Sunday, January 1, 2012
Good Health: Go outside and play
-
Jennifer Buchanan / Herald file, 2007
Carrie Strandell skates her way up a hill in the forests surrounding Lake Wenatchee.
We love our outdoor sports in the Northwest, despite the short days and damp chill.
After all, what is more exhilarating than playing in the snow? Pick activities like snowshoeing, cross-country skiing and ski skating for fun and health benefits.
These activities give a good heart-healthy workout from rhythmically using the arms and legs, while you get close to nature, to observe wildlife and pristine views.
Wondering about that "ski skating"? It's similar to country-country skiing, but with shorter skis that you use to push across the top of the snow like skates. Some say it's like flying across the snow.
We have other tips for winter-weather trekkers, such as advice on what to wear and what to take with you, like the Mountaineers' 10 essentials.
Being well prepared just makes it that much more fun.
If running on solid ground is more your style, however, read about preparing for the spring racing season. Consider getting in shape for a half-marathon, the current star of the race world.
You don't have to start today -- today is for football and visiting friends -- but if you start a fitness program, say, Tuesday, you could run a half-marathon in Everett in April.
Stuck inside with a cold or the sniffles? We can help you out there, too. How about some chicken soup, just like Grandma makes?
But once you kick that cold, head back outside. Can't you see yourself now, flying across the snow? Get out there and feel good.
Layer, layer, layer: How to dress if you're planning to hit the snow.
Winter essentials: What you should bring on your outdoor adventures.
Ski to fitness: Cross-country skiing is a fun, family-friendly way to get in shape.
Go halfway: A half-marathon is a goal even running rookies can achieve.
Slow and steady: In tai chi class, you can forget your stresses and cares.
Achoo! Natural remedies to help make the sniffles a little less miserable.
Chicken soup: Why the time-honored remedy is more than mere comfort food.
Vitamins: Do you need them? If you're over 40, they're worth considering.
Mind pets' feet: Cold, rough conditions can be hard on your furry friends' paws.
After all, what is more exhilarating than playing in the snow? Pick activities like snowshoeing, cross-country skiing and ski skating for fun and health benefits.
These activities give a good heart-healthy workout from rhythmically using the arms and legs, while you get close to nature, to observe wildlife and pristine views.
Wondering about that "ski skating"? It's similar to country-country skiing, but with shorter skis that you use to push across the top of the snow like skates. Some say it's like flying across the snow.
We have other tips for winter-weather trekkers, such as advice on what to wear and what to take with you, like the Mountaineers' 10 essentials.
Being well prepared just makes it that much more fun.
If running on solid ground is more your style, however, read about preparing for the spring racing season. Consider getting in shape for a half-marathon, the current star of the race world.
You don't have to start today -- today is for football and visiting friends -- but if you start a fitness program, say, Tuesday, you could run a half-marathon in Everett in April.
Stuck inside with a cold or the sniffles? We can help you out there, too. How about some chicken soup, just like Grandma makes?
But once you kick that cold, head back outside. Can't you see yourself now, flying across the snow? Get out there and feel good.
Layer, layer, layer: How to dress if you're planning to hit the snow.
Winter essentials: What you should bring on your outdoor adventures.
Ski to fitness: Cross-country skiing is a fun, family-friendly way to get in shape.
Go halfway: A half-marathon is a goal even running rookies can achieve.
Slow and steady: In tai chi class, you can forget your stresses and cares.
Achoo! Natural remedies to help make the sniffles a little less miserable.
Chicken soup: Why the time-honored remedy is more than mere comfort food.
Vitamins: Do you need them? If you're over 40, they're worth considering.
Mind pets' feet: Cold, rough conditions can be hard on your furry friends' paws.
Comments
(