The cold weather has always been an excuse for many of us not to engage in sports or any physical activity. But with the threat of COVID-19 still prevalent, taking extra care of our health and well-being should still be on top of our priority to help reduce the risk of catching the deadly disease.
With this in mind, there are practically plenty of indoor sports you can engage in and enjoy during these winter months. Any of these sports is good for you as it gets your endorphins and other good hormones rushing, improving your mood, and keeping you active.
Indoor Sports to Play During Winter Season
Squash
A high-intensity sport that can be played by a solo or multiplayer, squash can have you breaking in sweat in a jiffy. All you need are rackets, a small rubber ball, and a four-walled room to play this sport. The objective of the game is to alternately hit the ball with the rackets on the playable wall of the room.
The best thing about this sport is that it can be played solo, saving you the time to look for a partner. Furthermore, the outside temperature does not influence how well you play the game. But before starting your squash session, be mindful of the sports court flooring or surfacing for any slippery surface.
Rock Climbing
A great sport to challenge your strength and strategy is rock climbing. But with snow outside, indoor rock climbing can be an alternative. With the physical demands of the sport, you will develop your upper body strength in no time. Also, unlike ball games that can be monotonous, indoor rock climbing is more exciting.
It won’t be great on your first go, but with constant practice, you’ll have better coordination and ascent. However, if you are afraid of heights or a newbie, you could try bouldering instead. Rather than greater heights, you will be climbing lower heights without the need for a harness over safety mats.
Badminton
For many centuries until now, badminton is still a well-loved sport by many. Since badminton is a sport that has to be played by two or four players (unless you have a shuttlecock rocket), it is a great social sporting activity. Playing badminton will not only keep you in shape, but it also helps improve your social skills.
There are several benefits of playing badminton apart from providing an avenue for socialization. Playing this sport enhances your muscle strength with all the running, diving, and lunging. In no time, you can lose weight and tone your muscles by playing this sport. It also improves your flexibility and reflexes.
Futsal
Over the past few years, futsal has increasingly become popular as an alternative indoor soccer sport. Perhaps one of the reasons for this growing popularity is that futsal has no restrictions and the rules are easy to follow. Although somewhat similar to soccer, futsal is a combination of various sports.
Also known as five-a-side football, futsal only needs five players for each side, a smaller size four-ball, and a hockey sized goal. Since the ball used in this game has reduced bounce, players have more control over the ball. This eliminates the hazards posed by regular soccer, making it indoor friendly.
Basketball
Another great sport you and your buddies can enjoy whether outdoors or indoors is basketball. Basketball is known to help foster a healthier cardiovascular system. This in turn helps improve blood circulation and respiration. Although you might miss out on some health benefits of being outdoors, basketball can keep you fit.
Apart from helping improve your physical health, playing basketball also has a positive impact on your emotional and mental well-being. Along with other team sports, basketball helps reduce the risk of depression in kids and teens. Also, it helps improve your social and communication skills as well.
Swimming
Who says swimming is only for the summer? Although your favorite lake or beach may be inaccessible right now, there are plenty of indoor pools available not only at your local club but sports centers as well. Whether it is free or you have to pay a small price, indoor pools are generally accessible to all.
There are plenty of benefits for swimming as a body workout. It gets all your muscles going and those muscles toned. Swimming keeps monotony at bay. It is also a great way for families to bond together. And if you do not know how to swim, you can always get help from swimming coaches who are easily available at most sports centers.
Winter season can make you feel sluggish and put on winter weight. But with these indoor sports, you can keep up with your fitness routine and stay healthy even during the winter months.
