Keep your family fit with these great snow games
Mix up your fitness routine, burn serious calories, and spend some Q.T. with your kids or friends by heading out into the winter white to play one of these creative games from Rose R. Kennedy, author of The Family Fitness Fun Book: Healthy Living for the Whole Family. (Yes, it counts as a workout!)
Hi-lo snow hurdles
Build two six-inch mounds of snow five feet apart and place a broomstick across the top. Take turns doing running jumps over the hurdle. (Be sure to play this game on soft snow, not ice.) When everyone has cleared it twice, add six inches and go again. When no one can clear the top, start moving the hurdle back down for a limbo contest. (Best for ages 5 and up.)
Total burn: Around 170 calories per half-hour* (indoor workout equivalent: low-impact aerobics)
Sled bowling
Make “pins” by freezing an inch of water in each of 10 two-liter bottles. Arrange them in a large triangle at the bottom of a not-too-steep hill. Take turns acting as the “bowling ball” by sitting at the top on a disc sled (arms and legs pulled in, head tucked) while another player pushes the “ball,” and tries to knock over as many pins as possible. (Best for ages 7 and up.)
Total burn: Around 150 calories per half-hour* (indoor workout equivalent: walking on a treadmill at moderate pace and medium slope)
Follow the leader
Just like the traditional game, except the leader has cold-weather options like making a snow angel or stepping only in someone else’s footprints. Every 100 yards or so, the person at the back of the line moves forward to be the leader. Great for all ages.
Total burn: Around 220 calories per half hour* (indoor workout equivalent: dancing to your favorite tunes)
*All calorie estimates are based on a 150-pound woman.