PICK A SIDE: What’s the best outdoor winter activity?

Mississauga | Ontario | Lifestyle |

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Published February 19, 2021 at 5:05 pm

skiing

With already a significant amount of snow having hit the GTHA this week, and more likely to come this weekend, it appears the snow is here to stay… at least for the weekend.

With gyms having been closed for some time, many are seeking alternate ways to exercise and stay physically active (while a stay-at-home order has been in effect since January, exercise is considered an essential reason to leave the house).

With consistent colder temperatures and a significant amount of snow, many are looking forward to participating in outdoor, winter activities.

But which is best?

When some think of outdoor fun, they immediately think of skating—with most lakes and rivers having frozen over, many have laced up their skates and hit the ice.

Additionally, while some enjoy just skating by itself, many believe it’s just a part of their favourite winter activity—hockey.

Most cities manage outdoor ice rinks during the winter that are dedicated to those looking to hone their skills when it comes to Canada’s most popular sport (outdoor rinks are so popular there was an uproar this year when some cities announced they wouldn’t be maintaining the same number of rinks due to the pandemic).

For others, the winter activity they most enjoy is tobogganing. Many love the nostalgia it elicits, allowing them to reminisce on a time when they were younger and carefree.

It’s also one of the more easily accessible winter activities—all you need is a hill and a sled… and sometimes you don’t even need the sled.

Those who want something similar to tobogganing, but with more of a rush, tend to gravitate towards downhill skiing/snowboarding.

There are few things more exhilarating than trying to keep your balance while racing down a mountain. Many likely also associate skiing/snowboarding with fond memories of family outings—you tend to have to travel a decent way to find a mountain suitable to ski/snowboard down.

Those who enjoy skiing but aren’t huge fans of speeding down mountains may feel cross-country skiing tops winter activities—it’s certainly a workout… considering there’s no gravity to assist with propulsion.

So, readers, what do you think? What is the best outdoor winter activity?

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