Snowshoers are making tracks in Kindersley
By Joan Janzen
On a Sunday afternoon, you may see people making their rounds on the Kindersley golf course, but this winter, they’re navigating the course on snowshoes. This was made possible when the Pathway to Wellness group received a grant, which enabled them to purchase snowshoe equipment.
Bev Callsen, who is Volunteer Co-Chair at Pathway to Wellness, enjoys planning programs. “When we looked at new things to offer at Pathway, I suggested snowshoeing. It’s a great thing to do outdoors,” she said. The equipment is made available to the community free of charge.
Snowshoe enthusiasts make their rounds at the Kindersley golf course Sunday afternoons at 2:30. SUBMITTED PHOTO
“At this point, we have 20 pairs of snowshoes, ranging in sizes from 60 pounds up to 200 pounds. We also have poles for all of them, which helps with balance and mobility,” Bev said. Four additional pairs of snowshoes have been ordered; snowshoes attach to a winter boot or hiking boot and are very lightweight.
Ten to fourteen participants of different ages are making tracks in the snow every Sunday afternoon at 2:30 p.m. “Some are kind of becoming regulars,” Bev observed, “It’s been really good to see so many people come and give it a try.”
The Kindersley Regional Golf Course stepped up to the plate, offering use of the course during the winter months. Consequently, participants enjoy the use of a safe trail where they can enjoy their sport.
Snowshoeing is a great way to keep in shape during the cold winter season; it’s an excellent low-impact aerobic exercise. Not only is it a good workout, but it’s a great social activity, perfect for all ages and ability levels. It’s an activity family and friends can enjoy together.
It’s affordable too since Pathway to Wellness provides free use of their equipment. Just give a shout-out to Bev Callsen beforehand to let her know you would like to use the equipment before it’s all spoken for.
“If weather is good, I put a post out on Facebook on Saturday, and again on Sunday morning. Or people text me,” Bev explained.
Snowshoeing is a beginner-friendly activity, requiring only a few basic techniques. Beginners are advised to walk as they would without snowshoes, allowing for some straddling. If you should fall, simply roll over onto your front, put one knee up and push yourself up to a half-kneeling position. From that point you can use your poles to help you stand or use your knees to brace your hands.
If you need to make tracks through untouched snow, depending on the depth of the snow, you may need to slow down and lift your steps higher. Anyone who plans to venture off easy trails will need to learn how to go up and down hills, traverse slopes, and use their poles.
Meanwhile, the participants at the golf course generally enjoy an hour or two on their snowshoes. “Some go for one round; some go for two. You just go at your own pace,” Bev concluded.