Are you prone to have the winter blues? Although some might attribute a dismal mood to a lack of sunlight, some research suggests it’s linked to reduced physical activity during winter. With that in mind, here are five sporting activities that might cheer you up.

Indoor rock climbing

Check out Cliffhanger Vancouver (670 Industrial Avenue) for a great arm and core workout while scaling a 13-metre wall. The company has been offering drop-in sessions for more than 20 years for adults and kids. It’s safe, it’s fun, and it’s a great way to escape miserable winter weather.

See the Cliffhanger website for details.

Downtown ice skating

The provincial government is expected to reopen the Robson Square Ice Rink (800 Robson Street) on December 1. Take a date, lace up the blades, and find out how much fun you can have at minimal cost. Skating takes place from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Sundays to Thursdays, and 9 a.m. to 11 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays. Skate rentals cost $4.

For more information, see the Robson Square website.

Cross-country skiing

Some of B.C.’s best cross-country skiing is available at Cypress Provincial Park, which is a half-hour drive from Vancouver. There are more than 19 kilometres of groomed and track-set trails on its Hollyburn Mountain. More than a third are lit up at night for those seeking a good workout after the sun sets.

For details, see the Cypress website.

Hold your own bonspiel

Do you dream of skipping a foursome that consistently rolls a rock into the button? The Vancouver Curling Club offers hourly rentals and block bookings until April on its eight sheets of ice. Fees begin at $200 for a group of 10 and include a coach for the first hour.

Visit the Van Curl website for more information.

Snowshoeing in paradise

There’s a reason why snowshoeing is one of the fastest-growing winter sports in Canada. It’s easier on the knees than snowboarding and skiing. What’s more, it’s a hell of a lot more peaceful. One of the best spots in the region for snowshoeing is Munday Alpine Park on Grouse Mountain.

See the Grouse Mountain website.