January Family Fitness Events

Kick off a healthy new year with a hike, a 5K run or walk, or even a polar plunge. If you're lucky enough to be somewhere with snow on the ground, now's the time to get out and play in it before school starts again. You can build, slide, create, run, jump, and more with the white stuff.

In many cultures, round foods are considered good luck at the New Year, because they symbolize the full circle of year, marking both a beginning and an ending. For an active twist on this tradition, get out some hula hoops and spin away!

Remember that many gyms and fitness centers have special New Year's Day deals. Do your research ahead of time and then you can jump in for the savings opportunities. And if you're ready for some resolutions, consider these suggestions for kids, teens, adults, and the whole family. To up your odds of keeping your vows, make them specific, measurable, achievable, realistic, and timely (remember the acronym "SMART"). Good luck, and happy new year! More »

From college football bowl games to the NFL playoffs, January means some of the biggest games of the year. Get outside for a game of touch or flag football. And if your child is inspired to try youth football, learn what to expect, from costs to time commitment to injury risk. More »

Each year in early January, you can try try snowshoeing or cross-country skiing for free on Winter Trails Day. Trails, parks, Nordic centers and resorts host giveaways, equipment demos, guided tours, free or reduced-rate lessons and trail fees, and other special events. These sports are easy to pick up and really help you enjoy nature all winter long. 

Even if there are no events in your area, you can visit a park, nature center, or trail that offers snowshoeing. Some have snowshoes you can rent.

Learn more about figure skating throughout the month of January, with special events sponsored by ice rinks and the U.S. Figure Skating Association. Check your local rink's calendar of events for performances, demos, and free or discounted lessons or public skate events.

Ready, set, ski, with free or reduced-rate lessons at ski resorts and slopes in more than 30 states. The skiing and snowboarding industry puts together this annual promotion to remind us that "humans were never meant to hibernate." All month long, try skiing or snowboarding with an inexpensive lesson from a professional instructor. You and your children are eligible whether you are complete novices or more experienced skiers or boarders who want to learn some new skills.

It's also National Ski Safety Awareness Month, so wear a helmet! And watch for special safety tips, rules, and contests at ski areas this month.

This weekend, your family can visit over 100 national parks for free. Some parks may have special events too. This is the first of several National Parks free days throughout the year (next up is Presidents' Day weekend in February). Note that entrance, vehicle, and touring fees are waived, but other charges such as camping or reservation fees, and fees charged by vendors within the parks, may still apply.

See fitness events and observances for February and all 12 months of the year. More »