As I’m exercising more, I’ve accepted this sponsored post from the Sainsbury’s Bank team, if only to see what Lovely Bloke do when I suggest my base jumping to him. Knowing him, he’ll just want me to increase my life insurance first!!!
Ski jumping. Snowboarding. Base jumping. Yikes! Thankfully, not everyone has the budget and time to partake in adrenaline-junky winter sports, never mind the nerves. The good news is there’s a wide range of winter sports and hobbies – most of which can be done from the comfort of your warm living room or local leisure centre. The gym or jogging in sleet could bring cold comfort – so how about more novel activities to keep you fit when jack frost begins to bite?
Indoor cricket
You’ll need a room larger than the under-stair cupboard for this. Equally important is not to play indoor cricket near your Grandma’s fine china or the dog kennel. Unsurprisingly, indoor cricket is best played in a large hall out of harm’s way. It’s simple: All you need is a pair of wickets, bat, balls and two willing cricket teams – numbers don’t have to be exact. Hard batters will keep fielders and their fitness up.
Ice Skating
Here is one winter sport which goes equally well inside and out. If you’re lucky enough to live next to a skating rink, why not skate until your heart’s content? You may not yet cut a dashing figure on the ice – but working up to a vigorous skate will keep you both fit and agile.
Badminton
Here’s another undercover sport which is both fun and not cardio-crazy – but will give your dexterity and fitness a good test. Badminton is of course a team sport and very social as it can be played as doubles. More sedentary than tennis, and not so physically demanding it is arguably easier to pick up for the novice.
Dodgeball
One of the more unusual sports becoming increasingly popular is Dodgeball. This is a fun and family-friendly way to burn off any winter excesses. The basic idea of the game is to try to hit the opposing team with the ball(s) to eliminate them – but if they catch the ball you are out. Dodgeball can be fast and furious and is a great way to get your heart pumping and improve your reaction times.
Wii and other TV screen games
Rather than veg on the sofa after dinner, why not try your hand at Wii or other screen-based games? They are something the whole family can get involved in – and there are games to suit all activity and skill levels. The best aspect about these games is that they active, full of fun and can be played at a time to suit the family. What’s more, people of all ages can have a go – even Grandma and Grandad!
Five-a-side football and basketball
The great thing about five-a-side football and basketball is that they don’t need a full-size pitch to be played on and of course they can be played indoors! Both sports are fast-paced and are great for getting the pulse racing, especially when played at speed. Schools and sports clubs offer both sports and, if you fancy it, you could even train hard to be selected for a local league side. Details of UK-wide five-a-side and baskets ball venues can be found at Goals Soccer Centres and UK Basket Ball Courts.
Whatever your age or life stage, it makes sense to think ahead. Life insurance can provide a lump sum to help protect your family financially when you’re gone, pay for your funeral expenses and help pay off any debts you might have – depending on your circumstances and the type of policy you choose.
This guest post was written by Andy Moore on behalf of Money Matters, the Sainsbury’s Bank blog.
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