Anyone but the very slimmest can feel intimidated by rock climbing. I happen to love it and have taken many a friend to the climbing gym - they loved that feeling - never thought they would! My motto is I'll try anything once. That way at least I find
out what I do like doing.
If climbing intimidates you, get to the climbing gym when they open in the morning - nobody is there at that time. Do a session with an instructor the first time. If you don't want ropes at first - simply move sideways. You don't even need to get more than two feet off the ground for that. It is called bouldering
when you climb sideways, by the way. This will make you nimble and flexible - and it is one of the more fun ways to get and stay fit.
While snow isn't always available, when it is, try cross country skiing. That will give you a workout you never thought possible!
Lessons the first few times to learn good technique. Again, it is the peace out there that will lure you
back into those woods. Exercise? Again, that's bonus! Get a set of Capilene midweight long underwear for these pursuits (any of them). It is made by Patagonia and sold in any respectable outdoor store (REI,
EMS, Etc). It wicks away sweat from your skin so you stay dry (and happy!). Whatever you put over it does not matter, that layer is what gets wet. It is worth the money as is a good lightweight rainsuit.
Ever been curious about horses? Now is your chance. Buy a 10 pack of lessons at you local riding academy (one of the good ones) and try it out. Certain thigh muscles will wake up and your legs and lower back will thank you for it later. Good for posture too. Plus, plan a ride among Vermont's changing maple leaves next October.. or discover your inner cowgirl on a cattle drive out west...either will draw you back time and time again.
Then there is biking (road, touring, mountain), in-line skating, rowing (think Boston - great exercise on beautiful lakes and rivers). The possibilities are endless. This is how many people get fit and stay fit - because the exercise gets built
in to the hobby automatically so you get it for "free" in a way. Now, here is my plug: I am a travel consultant. I specialize in sending people on active vacations to places so incredible they never want to
come home. That right there can be tremendously motivating - getting in shape for an upcoming trip. Trips come in all degrees of difficulty - the easiest a few hours of flat walking per day for 5-6 days
(gourmet dining and country inns with down comforters). There is a plethora of options, the key is getting on the trip that is right for you."
