Ok, I’m hooked! After spending a couple of days over the holidays cross country skiing at Apex, I can honestly look at winter quite differently. With a beginner lesson and 5 km under my belt, my middle aged muscles were surprisingly grateful for the workout (at least I think that’s what the groaning meant the day after!).
If you haven’t been to the Nelson Nordic ski club at Apex/Busk you really must go and check it out. The not-for-profit volunteer club does an amazing job of grooming, instructing and welcoming visiting and member skiers. The fresh air, exquisite surroundings and affordable rates (adult $10 per day, $7 night or $140 season pass) are the other things that make this activity accessible and the jewel on our very own doorstep appreciated. The trails are open seven days a week and the night loop is lit until 10 p.m. every evening.
I’m not sure what took me so long to try it out, but I am so glad I did and grateful for the terrain, conditions and the community that supports it. Like I said, I’m a convert! For more information on how to better enjoy your winter, go to nelsonnordicski.ca.
For those of you wanting to stay inside and enjoy your winter without layers of clothing, here are a couple of alternative activities.
Get moving this winter with the very qualified Sandra at Qi Tai Chi. Tai Chi is a non-impact, relaxing and gentle moving exercise that promotes balance and strength by improving breathing and posture. Strengthen your muscles and bones, clear your mind and gradually relieve stress and tension. Their small classes accommodate adults of all ages and fitness levels, providing individual attention and guidance as needed. All levels are welcome. The next nine-week session started this week at the Balfour Hall: Wednesdays 9 to 10 a.m. and in Nelson on Tuesdays 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. and Wednesdays 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. at the Moving Centre, 533 Baker Street. For further information or to register contact Sandra at 250-551-0866 or sandra@qi-taichi.ca.
Rhythmic Gymnastics 2013 winter session commences this week and goes to March 7 at South Nelson School for girls ages 6 and up. Recreation programs for beginner and intermediate levels Ages 8 and up are on Tuesdays from 3 to 4:30 p.m. and for beginners ages 6 and up on Thursday 3 to 4 p.m. The performance group; for girls who want to progress from a recreational program and have the opportunity to perform, classes are Tuesday’s 4:30 to 6 p.m. and Thursday’s 4 to 6 p.m. For more information contact Gisele at 250-505-1812 or rhythmics@telus.net.