MANSFIELD, Ohio — Temperatures throughout the county have dropped to levels natives are more accustomed to this time of the year.
Translation: it’s cold.
While that limits people from participating in some outdoor activities, it opens up various opportunities that otherwise wouldn’t be possible without the cold and the snow.
So, if you’re looking to get in a good workout while embracing the great outdoors, take a look at the list below of winter activities.
Skiing and Snowboarding: Sure skiers and snowboarders have a way of gliding down the slopes in a way that seems effortless, as though no energy is required. But in reality, it takes stamina to make it from the top of the hill to the bottom.
The general stance is in a slight crouch, which puts strain on the leg muscles.
“It’s a great workout for your quads and hamstrings,” said Nate Wolleson, Snow Trails marketing manager.
The core muscles are also targeted when making wide turns, or “carving.”
“You’re using muscles in a way that’s completely unique-based on stance,” Wolleson said.
That’s why it’s not uncommon for people to remark, “I used muscles I never knew I had,” he said with a laugh.
But that’s part of what makes it fun, he continued.
“It’s a whole different feeling, making it exciting to get out and be active,” he said.
Both of these activities, along with snow tubing, are available at Snow Trails.
Sledding and Snow Tubing: You gotta’ get back up the hill somehow. That’s where you get your cardio workout while trekking through the snow. At least you can look forward to a breezy decline when you reach the top.
Ice skating: Improves joint flexibility, builds the leg muscles and boosts the cardiovascular system — those are just a few of the physical benefits gleaned from ice skating.
Of course, there are a few safety measures to adhere by before venturing out on the ice.
Here are a few tips suggested by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources:
- Let someone know when you will be on the ice and when you will return.
- Wear a life jacket or float coat.
- Carry two screwdrivers, ice picks, or large nails to help gain a firm grip, should you have to pull yourself out of the water.
- Avoid areas of thin ice or open water.
According to the ODNR, a minimum of five inches of ice is recommended for safe enjoyment of ice skating.
Weather permitting, the Village of Bellville’s ice skating rink in front of Village Hall on Main Street is open to the public.
Mayor Darrell Banks said the rink is open until 11 p.m.
“It’s such a short season, we want to make sure people can enjoy it,” he said.
Hiking: Get the blood pumping and heart rate elevated by taking a hike. There are plenty of places to explore throughout the area, such as Malabar Farm, Gorman Nature Center or Mohican.
Cross Country Skiing: Known as the “total body workout,” cross country skiing works every major muscle group and serves as a great aerobic exercise. Like hiking, this sport allows you to take advantage of the various trails in the area, whether at Malabar Farm, Gorman Nature Center or the Richland B&O Trail.
Safety recommendations:
Below are a list of safety tips provided by the ODNR with regard to winter activity.
- Dress warmly in layers: Start with insulating fabrics and use a final layer of protective fabrics.
- Insulating fabrics trap the body’s heat. Start with thin layers of polypropylene close to the skin. Add fabrics that retain heat even when wet such as wool or synthetic fleece.
- Avoid 100 percent cotton garments, as they are most effective at drawing heat away from the body.
- Protective fabrics prevent the elements from cooling the insulating layers. Parkas, rain suits, paddling gear, and jackets made of nylon, Gore-tex and some of the new microfibers are ideal.
- Keep your head, neck and hands covered, and wear waterproof boots.
- If venturing out on ice, wear a life vest under your winter gear or a new flotation snowmobile suit. Do not wear a flotation device when traveling across ice in an enclosed vehicle.
- Drink water to prevent dehydration, and avoid alcoholic beverages.
- Be alert for symptoms of hypothermia: uncontrollable shivering, drowsiness, slow or slurred speech, memory lapses, or clumsiness.
- Don’t “overdrive” your snowmobile’s headlight. Stopping on ice at even 30 miles per hour can take a much longer distance than your headlight shines.
Richland Source invites readers to share some of their favorite winter activities. Feel free to comment below.
