Winter Activities

Winter is finally here. And if you don't want to be cooped up indoors for the next few months, its time to get outside and enjoy all the activities you can only do when it snows.

I browsed a great website. Adirondack Sports and Fitness (http://www.adsports.com/), for more information on local outdoor activities.

Snowshoe racing - I've heard that if you can walk, you can snowshoe. The Dion Snowshoe Series hosts races every weekend (snow permitting) beginning on Dec. 27 and continuing through March. Snowshoeing takes a bit of endurance and is more about the journey than racing against the clock. If you're new to the sport, consider attending the Dion Demo Day at Albany Fleet Feet on December 20 from 12-2pm, followed by a run at the Crossing.

Cross Country Skiing - This area offers a great deal of cross country skiing centers for skiers of all abilities. For less than $20 per person, you get access to plenty of groomed trails, a lodge, lesson options, rental and food services. Also, check your local center for special programs like women's day, kids ski club, guided tours and festivals. Cross country skiing is thought to be on of the best aerobic exercises by exercise physiologists. It's also a low impact sport, so it's easy on knees and joints.

For more information about these and other great winter activities, contact Empire Health and Wellness Center at 518-690-4406 or visit our website at http://www.empirehwc.com/.