Embrace the cold and stay active all winter long with indoor workouts, community fitness, and cold therapy trends. by Alicia Carter
As the temperature drops this winter, it can be tempting to hibernate under a pile of blankets with a cup of hot cocoa. But as the days get shorter and the chill sets in, it’s more important than ever to stay active and focused on your health. Not only will regular exercise keep your energy levels high, but it can also help combat the winter blues and improve your mood. So, don’t let the cold keep you from your fitness goals! From indoor workouts to embracing the cold with innovative wellness trends, there are plenty of ways to stay active and healthy this winter.
Ice Hockey
Perfect for those who love the thrill of competition, ice hockey is a great winter activity that keeps you on your toes — literally! Whether you’re hitting the rink for a pick-up game or working on your skating skills, ice hockey offers a full-body workout that improves endurance, strength, and coordination. It’s also a great way to socialize with friends and get your heart pumping in a fun, fast-paced environment. The Atlanta IceForum in Duluth is a great place to play or practice your skills. With two regulation NHL-size rinks, skate rentals, professional lessons, and a snack bar to refuel after your game, it’s the perfect spot to embrace the winter fun. The IceForum offers both public skating sessions and hockey leagues, as well as private lessons for those looking to improve. The Atlanta Ice Forum is located at 2300 Satellite Blvd. in Duluth. Learn more at IceForum.com.
Ice Skating
Ice skating is not only a graceful winter sport, but also an excellent full-body workout. It engages your core, strengthens your legs, improves flexibility, and boosts your cardiovascular health. Whether you’re gliding smoothly or building your confidence on the ice, every session helps improve balance and coordination. In addition to the Atlanta IceForum in Duluth, which offers public skating sessions year-round, the Ice Rink at Sugar Hill is another local option. This popular spot is open through February and features a covered outdoor rink, perfect for a fun, active outing with family and friends. The Ice Rink at Sugar Hill is located at 5039 W. Broad St. in downtown Sugar Hill. For hours and more information, visit HaidRink.com.
Indoor Walking and Running
When the weather outside is less than inviting, indoor walking and running are great options to keep your fitness routine on track. Local facilities like George Pierce Park Gym in Suwanee and the E Center at Sugar Hill offer spacious, well-maintained indoor tracks for walkers and runners of all levels. These tracks provide a comfortable environment to stay active, no matter the temperature, and help you maintain your fitness goals throughout the winter months.
Indoor Cycling
Cycling is a great winter workout, but when it’s too cold or dark to ride outdoors, hop on a stationary bike. Spin classes are offered at most area gyms, and many come with high-energy instructors who will get you sweating while blasting your favorite tunes. The stationary bike provides an excellent cardio workout, plus it’s easy on the joints, making it ideal for those looking to maintain endurance and burn calories without the impact.
Indoor Pools
When winter arrives, most people forget about swimming. But the truth is, indoor pools are a great way to stay fit year-round. Swimming provides a full-body workout that improves cardiovascular health, builds muscle, and increases flexibility, all while being gentle on the joints. Many local community centers feature indoor pools, including Bethesda Park Aquatic Center in Lawrenceville, Bogan Park Aquatic Center in Buford, and Collins Hill Park Aquatic Center in Lawrenceville, among others.
Pickleball
If you’re in Buford, check out Pickle & Social (2925 Buford Drive), a fun spot offering indoor pickleball courts, along with food and drinks, creating a great social atmosphere while you stay active.
Take Advantage of Community Centers
If you’re feeling a bit stir-crazy and need a change of pace, head to a local community center. Many in the Suwanee area offer indoor basketball, tennis, and pickleball courts where you can play with friends or join a league. The Suwanee Sports Academy (3640 Burnette Road), for example, features a variety of sports facilities, including indoor courts for basketball and pickleball, perfect for staying active during the colder months. Another great option is The E Center at Sugar Hill (5019 W. Broad St.), which offers indoor courts for pickleball and tennis, as well as fitness classes and open gym time. If you’re in Buford, check out Pickle & Social (2925 Buford Drive, Suite 2100), a fun spot offering indoor pickleball courts, along with food and drinks, creating a great social atmosphere while you stay active. Whether you’re shooting hoops, perfecting your pickleball serve, or working on your tennis game, these community centers are fantastic for staying social, active, and engaged all winter long!
Group Yoga and Pilates Classes
When the temperatures drop, there’s no better way to warm up and stay centered than with a group yoga or Pilates class. Yoga is an excellent way to increase flexibility, build strength, and calm the mind during the colder months. The benefits are both physical and mental, as yoga helps relieve tension, improve circulation, and boost your mood — especially important as daylight wanes.
In addition to yoga, Pilates is a fantastic low-impact exercise that focuses on strengthening your core, improving posture, and increasing flexibility. Whether you’re using a mat or reformer machines, Pilates helps build a solid foundation for your fitness routine while preventing the typical aches and pains that come with a more sedentary winter lifestyle.
Downtown Buford’s ToLife! Yoga and Pilates offers a variety of indoor yoga and Pilates classes for all levels, from gentle stretches to more invigorating flows. Whether you’re new to yoga or Pilates, or a seasoned practitioner, the welcoming atmosphere and expert instructors will guide you through a practice that leaves you feeling both relaxed and energized. ToLife! Yoga and Pilates is located at 554 W. Main St., Suite 150, Building B in downtown Buford. For more information, visit ToLifeYogaandPilates.com.
Embracing the Cold: Cold Therapy Wellness Trends
While most of us prefer to stay warm during winter, a growing trend is emerging that encourages embracing the cold — and it’s not just for thrill-seekers. Cold plunging and cryotherapy are becoming increasingly popular wellness practices, with potential health benefits that go beyond a mere shock to the system.
Cold Plunging
Cold plunging involves immersing your body in cold water, typically between 45°F and 55°F, for a brief period, usually around 3-5 minutes. While the idea may sound daunting, the benefits are compelling. Cold exposure is said to improve circulation, reduce inflammation, boost the immune system, and even elevate your mood by stimulating the production of endorphins. Many people report feeling invigorated and rejuvenated after a cold plunge. You can try it at local spots like Suwanee’s Sathya Hot Yoga and Wellness (4320 Suwanee Dam Road), or if you’re feeling particularly adventurous, consider adding an ice bath or cold shower to your wellness routine at home.
Cryotherapy
Cryotherapy takes cold therapy to the next level by exposing the body to sub-zero temperatures in a specially designed chamber for a few minutes. This ultra-cold treatment is believed to speed up muscle recovery, reduce pain and inflammation, and promote overall wellness. Professional athletes and fitness enthusiasts alike are turning to cryotherapy for its post-workout recovery benefits. If you’re looking to try something new this winter, cryotherapy could be a unique way to push your recovery — and your mental toughness — to the next level. Lucky for us, there are many local places to try it out, including Revive Wellness in Lawrenceville, Vitality Med Spa in Suwanee, and more.
