This story was originally titled "Cool Weather Fitness Tips," in the December 2007 issue. Subscribe to Canadian Living today and never miss an issue!

On Christmas Day a few years ago, Johanna Wandel, then 34, her sister and two brothers descended upon their parents' home in Bruce Mines, Ont., near Sault Ste. Marie. After feasting on "massive amounts" of Christmas goodies and feeling in need of exercise, Johanna went outside to burn off calories by building a quinzee, or snow cave, while her family watched from indoors.

Johanna (who in her work life is a research associate in geography at the University of Guelph in Guelph, Ont.) was having so much fun that her siblings soon joined her. By Boxing Day they'd built four igloos as well as the quinzee. "If you live in this climate," says Johanna, "you can either huddle inside for six months or you can take advantage of it."

Johanna's got the right idea. According to the Canadian Fitness and Lifestyle Research Institute, 61 per cent of adults aged 18 and older are considered insufficiently active for optimal health benefits, which puts them at a higher risk for chronic conditions and diseases, such as high blood pressure, heart disease and diabetes. So don't let the cold weather chain you to your couch; instead, check the list below and head out for some winter fun.

Dress in layers, and include a windproof jacket, a hat and an extra pair of mitts; also bring water or juice and snacks such as trail mix, nuts or dried fruit. While you can do many of the activities right in your own neighbourhood, we included some extra-cool places to do them across the country.

Night skiing
Skiing – both cross-country and downhill – can be extra exciting under the stars. Safety Tip: Wear a headlamp and stick close together.
Cool spots:  Poley Mountain Resort near Sussex, N.B.; Gatineau Park, Ottawa (www.ottawaoutdoors.ca); Lost Lake Loop in Whistler, B.C.

Tobogganing
If you've ever slid down a snow-covered hill, you know what a rush it can be. And the upside to the uphill trip? It's a great workout that will get your heart pumping.
Tip: Choose smooth hills with few or no obstructions. Health Canada suggests all children wear a helmet while sledding.
Cool spots: Bowring Park in St. John’s, Nfld. (www.wordplay.com/tourism/parks/bowringpark.html); Citadel Hill in Halifax (www.pc.gc.ca/lhn-nhs/ns/halifax/visit/index_e.asp); High Park in Toronto (www.toronto.ca/parks/highpark.htm).

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