Staying Active When It’s Cold And Your Bed Is Calling

Winter is coming (and some would argue that it’s already here). Don’t let it keep you from getting active! Here are some ideas for fitness activities to do as the temperature drops in Toronto.

1. Try an indoor workout!

If you’d rather stay in the warmth, check out this list of bodyweight exercises for workouts that you can do at home! Other ideas include going for a walk on the Hart House track or taking the stairs more than usual. And, of course, there’s always the gym. When it’s cold enough to make me not want to leave my bed, I find the external motivation of Hart House or Athletic Centre classes to be extra helpful.

2. Go skating!

There’s no shortage of opportunities to go ice skating at U of T and throughout Toronto. The rink at Varsity Centre is open all season for drop-in casual skating and figure skating. Skate rentals cost $3 for students, but if you come by the November 24 Skate and Create event, skate rentals will be free for that night. You can also come by the Varsity Centre for drop-in hockey. If you’re new to the sport, try a practice sessions (called stick n’puck) if just want to learn the basics of controlling a stick and puck. Elsewhere in Toronto, the ice rink at Nathan Phillips Square is set to open on November 25^th, during the Cavalcade of Lights. There are also ice rinks at Christie Pits, Dufferin Grove Park, and the Harbourfront Centre’s Natrel Rink.

3. Just go out and play!

There may be no better time than winter for outdoor shenanigans. Some of my best U of T memories consist of impromptu snowball fights with friends – not only are they super fun, but you’re bound to burn some calories and maybe even get some cardio exercise. Why not challenge a group of friends to a snow fort contest at King’s College Circle? I’m also quite partial to running in the winter (at least up until my lungs start to burn from the cold). Especially when it snows, I love running through the winter scenery. I like to stay warm with a thermal headband that covers my ears but also keeps my hair out of my face. Insulated leggings are also a must. Last but not least, I like to stuff my phone inside a mitten so I can pull it out when I want to track my progress. Just go at an easy pace and watch out for ice! What are your favourite winter fitness activities? Tell us in the comments.