Top 5 Vancouver Activities Keep You Moving This Winter

We’re lucky here in Vancouver that the snow rarely gets in the way of being outside, and we can brave the rain in order to get a breath of fresh air. Even so, it can be daunting to get out there during the winter, but it’s important to maintain your fitness routine throughout the year. We put together the city’s top 5 ways to stay fit and get outside this winter.

Snowshoeing on the local mountains.

Snowshoeing is a great way to get outside, enjoy the snow and burn calories. Unlike skiing, it is inexpensive and requires little skill. Don’t have your own? No problem, the mountain rental facilities often have them, or pick them up beforehand at MEC. Make sure you plan your route and dress appropriately; water-proof footwear and layers are best. Snowshoeing is a great cardio workout, and builds strength, balance, agility and endurance.

Tackle local hikes.

Vancouver has some great hikes, not far from downtown, that are a great way to get your heart rate up outside. Stay below snow level unless you have the proper equipment and know the area well. Trails that are accessible year round include Lynn Loop in Lynn Headwaters Regional Park, Kennedy Falls Trail in North Van, or Mount Gardner on Bowen Island.

Run or walk the Seawall.

Winter is one of the best times to enjoy the Seawall because it’s not crawling with tourists - especially when it’s raining. Grab some gloves, and maybe a friend, turn on your music and the enjoy the beautiful West Coast scenery while the rest of Canada is forced to stay inside.

Create an outdoor circuit.

Bundle up in running gear and head outside to run your own circuit. If you have a set of stairs near by, they provide a great workout when you don’t want to hit the gym. Try sprints, jumps and step-ups for great cardio. Work in lunges, jump squats, push-ups and tricep dips for strength.

Join a team or organize a pick-up game.

It could be an old favorite, or something brand new; sports leagues are a great way to burn calories, and be social. There are lots of opportunities to play in the Vancouver area through social and fun leagues like Urban Rec or something more competitive. Either way, the important things is that you get outside, run off some stress and burn off that comfort food.