How to get in extra movement during the winter
Emma Gronholz
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According to the CDC, adults should get 150 minutes of activity each week to help with overall health. The Mayo Clinic recommends that adults striving to lose weight or looking for even greater health benefits should have 300 minutes of activity per week. Both organizations recommend completing some form of strength training 2 times per week to help with overall muscle health.
In the Midwest, we are typically more active in the summer months, understandably, as the weather allows us to be outside and engage in more outdoor activities. So, how can we make a point to increase our physical activity even in the cold, winter months? Continue reading to see a list of activities you can try out as a means to move your body more, as well as some places in the Fargo-Moorhead area that have access to these activities.
Winter-friendly activities to get you moving
Swimming
Swimming is a great low-impact activity, and it is something that most people can do, no matter their skill level. The best part of swimming is that it can range from a very intense cardio workout to a great rehabilitation activity for any aches and pains, depending on how fast and how long you choose to swim for.
Where to swim in the FM area
Broomball
Broomball is a fun way to get movement in and play “hockey” without having to know how to skate. This high-intensity activity is a great way to compete in a team sport for all those with a competitive spirit.
Where to play Broomball in the FM area
Hockey/Skating
Minnesota is known as “Hockeytown, USA”, and for good reason. We take hockey seriously around here, and it’s also a great way to move your body! You can play hockey competitively in leagues around town or simply enjoy skating with some friends on an indoor or outdoor rink.
Where to play hockey and open skate in the FM area
Cross country skiing/Snowshoeing
Nordic skiing is a great way to get outside and get your body moving. This low-impact form of exercise mimics walking or running, and can easily be learned even if you’ve never done it before. Snowshoeing is great for those who like to hike but struggle to walk in the snow in the winter months.
Where to ski and snowshoe in the FM area
Pickleball
Pickleball is a great alternative for those who like to play tennis but want to reduce the speed of game play and size of the court. It’s fun for all ages and ability levels.
Where to play pickleball in the FM area
Your challenge for the rest of winter is to do one of these activities every week! In addition to the countless benefits that come along with exercise, you’ll also enjoy learning a new skill or trying out a new form of movement. Of course, when you’re itching to get your body moving, we have options for you at Rise, too! Come get a workout in, or simply hop on the bike or rower. On Monday evenings, all are also welcome to join Coach Megan for yoga at 7:00pm.
Other great options not listed above include: Following along with YouTube videos of yoga, zumba, or step classes, signing up for lessons at a local dance studio, or participating in rec leagues for basketball or volleyball. There are so many ways to move your body year round living in Fargo-Moorhead, but sometimes you just have to get a little creative. We hope this list helped inspire you to get out and move! If you’d like to chat with a Rise coach about how we can help you reach your health and fitness goals in and out of the gym, we’d love to meet with you! You can sign up for a Free Fitness Consultation here.