WVU experts suggest embracing local recreation and adventure opportunities to stay active in the winter months. (WVU Photo)
Offering a different kind of cold comfort, West Virginia University recreation and adventure professionals are providing tips for maintaining motivation to get moving during the winter months to support physical and mental health.
Andy Darling, director of WVU Campus Recreation, Jacob Rex, trips and climbing coordinator for Adventure WV, and Emily Chapman, program support specialist for Adventure WV, say there are all kinds of ways to stay active indoors and outdoors despite the cold and snow.
Quotes:
“February is typically our busiest month of the year at the WVU Student Rec Center as people move their workouts indoors.
“When weather is a factor, my advice is to identify something you enjoy doing inside to stay active. In some cases, that may mean translating the things you enjoy outdoors to inside without modification. In other cases, you may need to change things up, and it’s helpful to find ways to make the experience special — like watching a TV program you enjoy while exercising on our cardio equipment or soaking in our spa at the end of your workout.
“Our two biggest Campus Recreation programs are Fitness, with more than 50 group exercise classes plus personal training, and Intramural Sports. Basketball and volleyball are the most popular in our winter season. To start the new year, we’ve also launched CloudFit, a fitness program that includes a lot of full body movements.
“For those who prefer to work out at home, be wary of what you may see from various fitness influencers. Having a lot of followers does not mean what a person is sharing is safe or effective. Look for evidence-based programs for self-paced workout videos from the American College of Sports Medicine and others.” — Andy Darling, director, WVU Campus Recreation
“Cold air is such a healing tonic for your body. I learned this from my time living in Norway. Like a cold plunge, it wakes you up and preps your body for movement. Your brain works much better with frequent, novel stimulation. If you are struggling with stress, getting some cold air and sunlight is a great boost for your system. I challenge everyone to embrace the cold this winter.
“I think a lot of people see winter weather as a hindrance to their ability to stay active, when it is quite the opposite. Snow and cold mean winter sports, which are some of the best mediums to enjoy the outdoors. Snow covered trees, iced over creeks and waterfalls, and powdery mountains are the perfect backdrop to getting some fresh air moving through your body. For anyone struggling to find motivation to get outside in the cold, our guided trips are a perfect remedy that get their bodies moving.
“I will personally advocate for cross-country skiing as the perfect cure to the winter blues. I am a big runner, but running in winter is not always my favorite. Cross-country skiing is one of the best aerobic workouts you can do. It has low impact on joints and is great for your legs and lungs. It’s so fun. Our equipment rentals are very affordable, too. Another great thing about cross-country skiing is that it’s often free — no lift tickets, no lines, no expensive resort fees, no special clothing needed.
“In terms of downhill skiing, hitting the slopes burns calories at a similar rate as running or jogging. It strengthens your legs, core and back, and gets fresh air circulating in your system. Adventure WV offers discounts on day trips to area ski resorts to keep these ski workouts affordable as well.
“Our Winter Wonder Adventures are opportunities to get moving this winter with activities that include ice skating, cross-country skiing, sledding and snow tubing. Transportation and equipment are provided for each of these experiences as part of registration. Each trip is designed to take participants to unique West Virginia locations and they make new friends along the way.” — Jacob T. Rex, trips and climbing coordinator, Adventure WV
“Our winter equipment rentals include downhill skis, snowboards, cross-country skis, and snowshoes, and all of those offer an opportunity for folks to experience the outdoors and to try something new. Our winter rentals are a fraction of the cost that big resorts charge. And it’s all to give the WVU community more access to winter sports.
“Staying active with friends during the winter months can combat feelings of loneliness while using parts of your body that may not get frequent exercise. I know when I go cross-country skiing, I’m seeing the spaces I like to hike with a new perspective while getting off the couch or away from my desk. The Mon River Rail-Trail, Coopers Rock State Forest and Snake Hill Wildlife Management Area are all so beautiful in the snow.
“I recommend doing a little research, but not letting it intimidate you. With anything new, there’s a wealth of knowledge found in friends, professional lessons and the internet in general.
“Trying something new can sometimes feel overwhelming, but don’t let the fear of doing something poorly stop you from trying at all. Take it slow, enjoy the scenery and the friends you’re surrounded with and give a new winter sport a try. If you’re a seasoned outdoorsperson, consider bringing along a friend who has maybe never skied or has only gone once or twice.” — Emily Chapman, program support specialist, Adventure WV
Find more information about programs, memberships and more from WVU Campus Recreation.
Find more information about programs, equipment rentals and more from Adventure WV.
West Virginia University experts can provide commentary, insights and opinions on various news topics. Search for an expert by name, title, area of expertise or college/school/department in the Experts Database at WVUToday.
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hlt-sj/1/27/25
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