Wacky Winter Sports to Try in Michigan
Jillian Berndtson
| 3 min read
Looking for a new and exciting workout to spice up your winter routine? Whether you’re an avid athlete seeking a new workout or hoping to find a new form of entertainment during the coldest months, there are plenty of activities around Michigan guaranteed to challenge you while burning some calories.
It’s important to continue working out, even when the weather is colder. Working out offers different health benefits based on what activities you’re partaking in. Exercising outdoors has been found to foster better sleep and promote stronger emotional well-being while also exposing your body to vitamin D which helps fight Seasonal Affective Disorder.
Ready to take on the challenge? Check out some of these unique options:
- Ice luge: Satisfy your inner winter Olympian and try out luging. There are only four luge tracks in the entire country and Muskegon is home to one of them. Take advantage of the rare opportunity and feel the adrenaline rush as you send yourself sliding down a sheet of ice.
- Ice sailing: Ice sailing combines skating, skiing and snowboarding with sailing. The sport uses the cool winds to propel you across the ice. If you’re feeling adventurous and want to try a new spin on an old sport, try ice sailing on the closest frozen body of water.
- Ice climbing: Ice climbing is similar to rock climbing and uses a lot of the same equipment. The difference? Ice climbing takes you up a frozen waterfall instead of solid rock, sometimes up to 200 feet!
- Snow biking: This one is exactly what it sounds like; take your summer biking, but add snow. Of course riding on snowy terrain isn’t the same as riding on a paved street. Snow biking requires “fat tire bikes” to be able to handle the trails properly. Grab a friend and choose a trail. You’ll get to experience the beauty of Michigan winter trails while getting a great workout at the same time.
- Skijoring: Love dogs? Love skiing? Then you’ll love skijoring! This sport combines the workout of skiing with the pull of dogs. Enjoy the great outdoors as you ski through the snow with assistance from your canine companions.
Next time you have free time available and are looking for something new and exciting, consider trying one of these activities to keep you healthy and active through the winter.
What’s on your winter bucket list? Let us know in the comments.
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Photo credit: A Healthier Michigan
