... continued from Cover there a new album you’re curious about or an old one you’ve been meaning to listen to for some time? Load it up on your favorite streaming service, and use your walk as a great time to listen. You also don’t have to stick to music. There are countless podcasts available these days, and there’s sure to be at least one that will spark your interest. Some people listen to audiobooks and motivate themselves by only listening when they’re walking — can’t find out what happens next unless you get your exercise! And if you don’t mind talking aloud while you’re walking, you can even take the time to learn and practice a new language.
from getting stale, as well as a great way to learn more about the area where you live.
DO GOOD DEEDS.
Many of us feel a desire to give back, but it can be hard to find the time. You can support your health and your community by doing good deeds while you walk. For example, if there’s litter on your route, bring some gloves and a small bag and pick it up as you go. Or, if you’re around other people, try paying someone a compliment — for example, “I like your shoes!” or “That’s a great hat!” You’ll likely brighten up both your day and theirs. If any of your neighbors are homeless, you can get more ambitious and start bringing them snacks, sandwiches, or small care packages. And since you’re walking anyway, you can try the free app Charity Miles (CharityMiles.org), which allows you to choose a charity and earn donations from corporate sponsors based on how many miles you walk. It couldn’t be easier to give back! Whatever method you choose to spice up your walking routine, it doesn’t take a lot to make your exercise more interesting. Try something new today, and get that heart pumping!
PLAN NEW ROUTES.
There’s no rule saying you can’t drive to your walk. If the neighborhood is getting boring and you’re tired of looking at the same old houses, start brainstorming a new destination for your exercise. For a scenic view, try a park or a beach. Cemeteries can also be surprisingly tranquil and beautiful, with lots of sprawling land. If you live in the suburbs, drive into the city and start to explore; and if you live in the city, try a rural area with lots of fresh air. You can even pick a random neighborhood on a map, park your car, and check it out. Choosing new routes is a great way to prevent your routine
SNOWSHOEING IS A FUN, EASY OPTION FOR ALL AGES Meet Your New Favorite Winter Sport
1. If you can walk, you can snowshoe! Unlike other energy- intensive sports like skiing and snowboarding, snowshoeing is safe and relatively easy for folks of all ages. Some outdoorsmen and women snowshoe into their 70s and beyond, so a snowshoe outing is a great way for grandparents and grandkids to bond while getting some aerobics in. 2. Speaking of aerobics, snowshoeing is also a great workout . When you strap on your snowshoes, you can burn up to 50% more calories than you would while hiking (depending on your pace and the type of terrain). Athletes who want to really amp up the exercise can even invest in jogging snowshoes! 3. Last but not least, snowshoeing is scenic! When you’re whizzing down a mountain on a snowboard or skis, you don’t have time to take in the view. But on snowshoes, you can soak up all of the winter beauty around you. You can even bring your camera along on your trek to capture pictures of any flora and fauna you see. If you want to try snowshoeing this winter, make sure you start with an easy trail and consult your doctor and/or physical therapist before you go. Always bring along a backpack of emergency supplies like a blanket and first aid kit, too, and consider purchasing or renting hiking poles along with your snowshoes to boost your stability. For more insider tips, visit SnowshoeMag.com.
When celebrities jet off to Aspen, Colorado, for their winter vacations, they might not all be going to ski. According to Forbes, Aspen is also a top snowshoeing destination — and that’s a sport that celebrities and ordinary people of all ages can enjoy. Snowshoeing is a simple activity that dates back at least 6,000 years. It involves strapping large flipper-like attachments called snowshoes to your boots. The attachments distribute your weight and let you walk over banks of powder without sinking. You can use them to navigate flat plains, rolling hills, or steep mountains depending on the type of shoe you invest in.
On top of its unique history, these three major perks to snowshoeing just might make it your favorite winter sport.
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