Ever thought people have way too many excuses to not do fun activities when the weather turns bad? If the answer is ‘yes’ you may be looking for new ways to spend time outdoors and maybe even indoors, only with different options.
The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends that up to the age of 17, everyone needs 60 minutes of moderate to vigorous activity daily. You can keep fit and have fun when the sun stops shining with our top ten things to see you through winter.
1. Run for charity:
If the motivation thing is a spanner in the works, pick your favourite cause and enter an event to benefit it. Visit runforcharity.com to find out more.
2. Set up a photo expedition:
Find other photography fans and come up with your own brief. It could be nature or urban landscapes, for example. We have the results into your study coursework and score some academic credits at the same time.
3. Set up a flashlight tag competition:
It gets dark early so make the most of those hours with a great game. Imagine hide and seek with torches and you’re there. Oh, and no, games aren’t just for kids!
4. Find your snow legs:
Regardless of where you live it’s likely that you will be in striking distance of a real mountain or, failing that, a dry ski slope to hone your skiing, tubing or snowboarding skills.
5. Build something:
It takes us back to snowmen and igloos in the back yard but one of the most satisfying things to do over a weekend is build something real. A shed? A crate for your bedroom stuff? Only you know what you need. Try building before buying.
6. Find a Parkrun:
Every weekend, in 14 countries across five continents, Parkrunners come together to trot, sprint or amble around 5k park courses. Anyone can do it, as long as they’re older than four! Visit parkrun.org.uk to find a run near you.
7. Find a local teen dance club:
A decent teen dance club guarantees a booze-free night policed by cool but together licensed staff, usually hosted in an adult nightclub. A great opportunity to dress up and get active!
8. Football or American Football match at the park:
All you’ll need is a ball, ten people prepared to run up and down a pitch for 20 minutes each way and you have a game. If you want to take it up a notch, start at the top and visit thefa.com or britishamericanfootball.org to find a club near you.
9. Learn to ice skate:
Seriously, few things are more fun once you get the hang of it. It also improves your flexibility and gives a great workout. Visit www.iceskating.org.uk to find your nearest rink.
10. Take the NHS Couch to 5K Plan:
The UK health service is on a mission to raise the nation from its sofas. Follow this free five-week plan as soon as you like. NHS Strength and Flexibility podcasts by NHS Choices, free from iTunes.