06 Jan Winter Sports Programs
Phelps LaClair is an avid believer in sports participation when it comes to creating a long, healthy and satisfying life. We love to stay active, and we find that there are benefits for every age group, even into the “golden years.” In the Phoenix Metro area that we serve, there are abundant opportunities for team and individual winter sports at every skill level. Whether you are competitive or easy-going, there is an activity that is right for you. Here are some suggestions for family fun during the winter season:
Youth Sports
- Basketball—Winter is prime time for basketball. Many grade schools teach fundamental basketball skills in gym class. This is where children learn the basic rules of the game, learn how to dribble and pass the ball, and learn how to shoot baskets. As kids move into middle school and high school, they have competitive opportunities where they can improve their understanding of team dynamics and develop individual skills that will carry over into adulthood. On a recreation level, basketball is fun and is great aerobic exercise.
- Wrestling—Wrestling in junior and senior high schools develops an understanding of leverage and balance. It is also a great reason to build strength and quickness. Strategy is critical in wrestling: it’s not a sport for lazy thinkers. Lessons learned on the mat transfer to other life situations, too, including business, engineering and finance.
- Swimming—Even though most people associate swimming with summer, it is a winter sport in middle and high school. Competitive swimming builds endurance and confidence, and is simultaneously an individual and team endeavor. It requires both strength and aerobic training, and is excellent for physical conditioning. Recreationally, it is also an activity that you can do for the rest of your life.
Adult Sports
- Tennis—It’s a year round recreation that is fun to learn, inexpensive to equip and can be enjoyed throughout your life. We understand that not everyone is a Roger Federer or Serena Williams, but tennis is great no matter what your skill level. It is exercise that can develop hand/eye coordination, stamina, and quick response. Spend time on a tennis court and you will gain a new appreciation for the athletes you see competing on TV.
- Golf—Played around the world by duffers and pros alike, golf is a game that you play against the course rather than another person. It requires balance and coordination, but it can be learned and enjoyed by almost everyone—especially if you don’t keep score! If you can walk the course, so much the better. You don’t need high-end equipment to do well, either. A driver, a putter and three or four irons will suffice for most people. Golf is a fun sport and can be a great relational time for the whole family.
- Biking—Biking is another recreational activity suitable for the entire family. Once the training wheels come off, adventure awaits. For the daredevils, there is BMX, a dirt track sport of racing bicycles. For the more laid back, there are bike clubs that feature paceline riding and time trials. In between, you will find cyclo-cross and mountain biking. Even without any competitive drive, biking is excellent exercise for core, back, shoulder, and leg muscles. Check out sales on bikes and get out to enjoy life at the speed of your choice.
We are estate planning lawyers, and we recognize the value of staying active to live a long, healthy and satisfying life. As a second generation law firm, we welcome the opportunity to serve you, so come see us for all of your estate planning needs. Whatever winter sports or activities you do, Phelps LaClair encourages you to do it with a glad heart. Every day is an opportunity to be thankful for the gift of life and health.
Images used under creative commons license (Commerical Use) 01/06/2020 Photo by Matthew Henry from Burst