The Northern Light

Winter has finally arrived, and Alaskans are shifting into survival mode.

The air is cold and darkness dominates, bringing people to wonder why anyone would go outside in weather like this.But no matter how cold or dark it becomes, staying active is an important part of staying fit in winter, whether it's snowboarding, skiing, cross-country skiing, ski joring, snowmachining or hiking.

A simple way to keep active is to bundle up in layers, skip the shuttle and walk to class. And the Wells Fargo Sports Complex offers opportunities through the winter for aerobic exercise, such as swimming or using a bike machine or treadmill.

"I used to cheer, so all I did was run," said freshman Julie Rucker. "I'd say if you wanted to stay fit this winter, just run, do abs and definitely try swimming. Swimming is the fastest way to lose weight."

In winter, keeping an eye on food intake is key. "We have a tendency to be more in hibernation mode," said Michael Chris, professor of health, physical education and recreation, "so the eating patterns automatically change." It's also important to drink extra water in winter, because people dehydrate quicker when the air is dry. Water consumption is especially important when people are engaged in fitness activities.

A good way for Alaskans to transition into winter is to keep doing the physical activities they like to do in summer. The trick is to do them consistently.

"Don't change much, just adapt, and adapt smartly," Chris said. Students who want to try winter sports on for size can rent skis and snowboards at the Student Union Information Desk. Students should stay bundled up for outdoor activities and always have the appropriate footwear and face and hand protection to avoid frostbite and hypothermia. "Do something you enjoy, that you are confident and comfortable with," Chris said. "Try new things, but always make sure the activity is safe." Dental hygiene junior Molly Kline stays fit in winter by going to jazzercise every morning and doing activities she enjoys.

"I like working out early in the morning, because then no matter what happens later in the day, you know that your day started off good," Kline said. "I also go contradancing every Wednesday and play Nintendo on the running pad."

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