With the arrival of winter 2009, it’s time to turn your New Year’s resolutions into newly discovered passions. Are you feeling less-than-compelled by ordinary activities during these months? Spark your inner adrenaline junkie by tapping into cool winter sports that take place both indoors and outdoors.
Indoor rock climbing is good for those who fancy action, a great workout and cheap fun. Find climbing walls at local gyms and recreation centers before heading out to explore rugged cliffs and mountaintops.
Curling is a game of strategy and teamwork that involves sliding a rock on ice and sweeping its path; it’s described as “lawn bowling on ice.” Blogcritics Magazine discusses the mystique behind the sport that captivated Americans during the 2006 Olympics.
Ice biking allows you to be extreme, and can take place outside your front door—all you need is a bike, helmet and ice to fuel your wild side.
To change your routine a bit, try Nordic walking, the activity cross-country skiers take up to maintain their fitness during the off-season. The low-impact sport uses 90 percent of your body’s muscles, and can burn 40 percent more calories than walking alone. It’s also a way to discover parks, trails and city streets.
Need a little extra boost? Escape to one of Active.com’s “Top 5 Destinations to Try a New Sport.” A vacation is a great way to learn a new sport without having to endure harsh winter weather.
Jen O’Neill
Writer
FindingDulcinea’s Web Guide to Fitness will help jumpstart your fitness routine in the new year. Use it to find nutrition and exercise advice, and access online communities of health-oriented people.
Our Web Guide to Sports has a section on buying equipment that will outfit you for your new activity.
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