Affordable guide to staying active in winter months
By: Audrey Radick
When the winter months hit, it can be easy to swap your sneakers for slippers and hibernate. However, staying active in the winter does not necessarily involve bundled walks in the snow or expensive memberships. Staying active helps boost energy, improve focus as finals roll around and keep the winter blues in check. This guide will give you fun, affordable and convenient ways to build regular movement into your routine this season.
1.Columbus Climbing Gyms
If you are looking for a challenge this winter, check out indoor climbing. Ohio State has an Outdoor Adventure Center right on campus complete with a climbing wall, gear rentals and beginner-friendly routes.
If you’re feeling a bit adventurous, Columbus has three additional climbing gyms under the .5 Life Company. One of these gyms, Chambers, which is only a short COTA ride away. With their “First Time Free” program, the .5 Life Gyms make it easy to try out a new hobby. These gyms provide a solid physical and mental workout as well as a great community of supportive local climbers.
Photo by Audrey Radick
2. Community Center Classes
If you like a more structured workout, check out the Columbus Recreation and Parks website for affordable fitness classes. Many community centers offer pilates, yoga, dance and strength training sessions suitable for all levels. They are ideal for students wanting accountability and community without breaking the bank.
3. Ohio State Fitness Clubs
Joining a fitness club is the ideal way to get involved at Ohio State and stay active in a supportive, social environment. Standout clubs include boxing club and weightlifting club which both provide high-energy workouts that build endurance and strength, allow members to set personal goals and relieve stress. Both options, as many other fitness clubs, provide structure, accountability and a warm indoor space to keep moving when outdoor workouts aren't as appealing.
Image by Mikaela Parker
4. Ohio State Fitness Classes
The campus gyms, specifically the RPAC and North Rec Centers, at Ohio State are the ultimate nearby destination for fitness. Ohio State's group fitness schedule includes cycling, HIIT, Barre, Zumba and yoga. Any way you like to stay active when it's cold outside, these gyms likely offer. Most classes are included in student memberships or available through affordable class passes. The RPAC and NRC have a large variety of classes that are convenient making it easy to find what you actually look forward to.
Image by Maraya Neff
5. At Home Fitness Videos
When it's cold and you'd rather not go out, bring the workout inside. Free resources such as YouTube, Nike Training Club and Blogilates have thousands of effective, short workouts for every level. You can fit in a 20-minute strength session between classes, or do a guided stretch before bed.
