You don’t have to sweat it out at the gym to meet your health and fitness goals. Sticking to goals is easier when you’re having fun, so find something that works for you! Here in Edmonton, you’ll find lots of unique ways to get active and enjoy the best of the city at the same time.
1) Rock Climbing
Rock climbing is a fun yet challenging exercise for people of all ages and abilities. If you’ve never been before, don’t worry! Many climbing gyms offer introductory sessions or classes. Start with the smaller, easier walls—you’ll be scaling the biggest and toughest obstacles before you know it. Plus, not only will your body get a workout, your mind and your willpower will too.
2) Explore the River Valley
With over 20 parks and 160 km of trails (plus an area over 20 times larger than New York City’s Central Park!), there’s a chance for a new adventure every time you head out into Edmonton’s River Valley. Walk or bike all year round (try a fat bike for all-season riding) and enjoy beautiful views of nature and the Edmonton skyline for some extra inspiration and motivation.
3) Join the Surf Club
That’s right, surfing—at the West Edmonton Mall! Get your workout in and catch some waves at the World Waterpark as part of their Surf Club. Once you complete your mandatory surf lessons, you can drop-in for surfing during designated Surf Club hours year-round, rain or shine. Buy a six-session pass to save and surf more.
4) Hit the Slopes
With winter still in full swing, what better place to be than on the hill? Skiing, snowboarding, and tubing are fun ways for the whole family to get active in the wintertime. Edmonton and the surrounding region boast plenty of great ski hills and terrain parks, and they’re closer than you think—including right inside the city!
5) Cross-Country Skiing
Downhill skiing not your speed? Cross-country skiing is your chance to work up a sweat while exploring the beauty of our natural spaces. Whether you’re making your way through the River Valley or out east at the Strathcona Wilderness Centre, the trails are waiting! Be sure to look for all sorts of local creatures, from white-tailed jackrabbits to saw-whet owls.
How are you getting active and exploring YEG this winter? Let us know @WhereEdmonton!
