American football players with ball on the playing field ()
As the weather cools and the sun sets earlier, it is tempting to spend more time bundled on the couch with a hot cocoa (or mulled wine) indoors. However, kids and adults alike can resist that temptation by signing up for a sport this fall and winter. For those out there that aren’t “team players,” fear not, for we have included some great individual sports as well.
Fall and Winter Sports for Kids
The Army Child and Youth Services (CYS) and School of Knowledge, Inspiration, Exploration and Skills (SKIES), as well as the Air Force’s Force Support Squadrons (FSS) offer a variety of youth sports for the fall and winter. Depending on the age and area, your child can participate in soccer, flag football, basketball, ballet, cheerleading, Irish dance, gymnastics and more. Make sure your child has a physical form on file, which you can accomplish during their annual wellness exam.
Fall and Winter Sports for Adults
Team sports aren’t just for kids. There are many on and off-post opportunities for service members and their families to enjoy playing as well. Many installations offer intramural sports such as flag football, volleyball and basketball in the fall and winter. Most installations have bowling centers that provide an opportunity for you to drink beer and eat pizza while you participate in a bowling league. Off-installation, depending on your location, you can find adult soccer leagues, hockey teams, running groups, roller derby teams and snow-sport clubs.
Individual Sports for Everyone
Not everyone wants to sign up to play with others…and that is okay. There are tons of individual sports that you can do in the fall and winter. Your installation’s outdoor recreation center should be able to provide you with plenty of options. Depending on your location you can try fishing, cycling, recreational shooting, archery, snorkeling, diving, rock climbing, skiing, snowboarding and more. In addition, installation fitness centers offer wellness programs, personal challenges and fun competitions.
Preventing an Injury
No matter if you are a child or an adult (though especially if you’re an adult), prevention is key when it comes to staying injury free.
• Staying hydrated: This improves blood circulation, prevents overheating and dehydration and improves movement and agility.
• Wearing proper gear and using proper equipment: Always wear supportive shoes, and wear helmets, pads, and mouth guards when required. Ensure your equipment is in good working condition.
• Using correct posture and technique: Know how to properly move your body and use the equipment.
• Warm up AND cool down: Warm-ups loosen the joints and cool-downs help reduce lactic acid build-up and regulate blood flow and body temperature.
• Don’t overdo it! Rest when tired.
• Strengthen your core and maintain flexibility: The core is the center of your body, and a strong core allows for balance and stability.
• Cross-train: Remember to work other muscles and body parts so you are not repeatedly overstressing the same areas.
