Summer sports are back!

By: Kelsey McQueary

Posted: 4/29/09

Summer is here! That means new activities are about to begin in the beautiful weather. The more popular summer activities are centered on lake sports, hiking and climbing.

Hiking local trails is popular because working out in nature often provides a calming experience.

"I enjoy hiking because I love to be outdoors, enjoying nature and going at my own pace," UA sophomore Andrea Fisher said.

Sophomore Jordan Sorrick said she likes to hike and run on the trails when her schedule permits.

"I enjoy the scenery because it isn't your typical road run, and you get to enjoy the wilderness," Sorrick said.

Climbing is also a popular sport because it provides an intense workout for the arms, legs and buttocks. Outdoor climbing is often more enjoyable as it enables one to enjoy nature and provides more of an adrenaline rush.

"I enjoy being outside more because it is more improvised and there is more risk," sophomore Nathan Stern said.

Horseshoe Canyon Ranch near Jasper is a popular climbing area that has been featured in many climbing magazines. The ranch offers both beginning and experienced climbing opportunities, and guides are available to assist climbers. More information about the ranch is located on its Web site, Horseshoecanyon.com. Climbers can take advantage of a coupon for 20 percent off of the regular-priced gear and activities this spring.

Those who want to stay closer to campus for their climbing experience can take advantage of the climbing wall at the University Outdoor Connection Center. The wall is located in the gymnasium of the HPER building and is constructed of red rock climbing panels with 13 belay stations. The wall is assembled to provide a satisfying climbing experience for all levels.

"Hiking and climbing, I think, are kind of a physical and mental workout because it challenges you both physically and mentally," Fisher said.

Sophomore Grant Duensing said, "Climbing works out pretty much every muscle group you need and it builds lean, healthy muscles instead of bulky (muscles)," he said.

After a challenging workout outdoors with climbing and hiking, many students decide to relax by the lake or in a boat. On the lake, there are many water sports available, such as skiing, wakeboarding, tubing and knee boarding.

"I enjoy wakeboarding more than skiing because you can do more stuff out on the water," sophomore Jared Rieathbaum said. "There is more control."

These water activities work both the arm and leg muscles. The balance required in wakeboarding and water skiing also engages core muscles, promoting core strength.

Jet skiing and tubing are also popular water sports that require less skill than wakeboarding and skiing, but they still provide a fun and active water sport challenge.

Along with the workout provided by water sports, students can also enjoy relaxing at the lake, soaking up the sun and reclining in a boat. For many students, summer is the prime time to temporarily let go of responsibilities, relax and enjoy the weather and natural beauty of the area.