Outdoors

A Boulder and beyond bucket list of must-do summer adventures

Anonymous — Tue, 30 May 2023 14:19:01 +0000

A Boulder and beyond bucket list of must-do summer adventures Anonymous (not verified) Tue, 05/30/2023 - 08:19

Summer is here and the mountains are calling, but there’s so much more to do in Colorado, even in your own backyard. Here’s our list of the quintessential, must-do summer adventures in Boulder County and a few beyond.

1. Tube the Boulder Creek

Tubing the Boulder Creek through town is a rite of passage for all who call Boulder and the surrounding area home. With a little preparation, proper equipment and a plan for where to put in and get out, a summer float through Boulder can be a perfect way to spend a few hours. The Outdoor Pursuits office at The Rec features an equipment rental center and rents tubes, helmets and life jackets for daily or multi-day use, and they’re open every day in the summer when you’re ready to float. For more information on how to enter and exit the creek, check out this beginner’s guide.

2. Celebrate the 4th at Ralphie’s Independence Day Blast

Staying put for the 4th of July this year? Celebrate at Folsom Field with live music, activities and a fire-proof night sky drone show in place of traditional fireworks.

3. Eat hyperlocal

Outdoor, seasonal farm dinners grew dramatically in popularity during the pandemic, but these farm–to-table dining experiences are here to stay! Diners eat beside the gardens that produced their meal and are usually visited by not only the featured chef that evening but also the farm’s resident animals. Check out the line up of farm dinners from some of our favorite chefs and locales including Whistling Boar, Black Cat Farm and the Lyons Farmette.

Can’t make it to the farm? There are many restaurants in Boulder just a short walk from campus that can satisfy the need for clean, farm-to-table food cravings. Consider checking out Wild Pastures Burger Co., Naked Lunch Colorado, Next Door Kitchen and Bar or one of the many restaurants owned by Three Leaf Farm.

You can also shop locally at farmer’s markets in Boulder, Louisville, Longmont, Lafayette and Lyons! Offering so much more than local harvests, you can enjoy a meal, have your knives sharpened, listen to music and enjoy the bounty of produce grown in Colorado. For a complete list of markets in your area, check out this online resource.

4. Pool hop through Boulder County

Some of the best public pools exist right here in Boulder County and can be enjoyed without breaking the bank. Start off with a dip right on ��ӽ紫ý’s campus in the Buff Pool because where else can you swim in a pool the shape of a buffalo? Access to the pool is free to all Buff OneCard holders on Welcome Wednesdays, June 7 through Aug. 2.

Once you’ve had your fill of the “Ralphie” pool, walk or ride over to Scott Carpenter Pool just off campus. This recently renovated pool is named after one of Boulder's most famous astronauts and features a lazy river, multiple slides, a splash pool and lap swimming.

Ready for the next dip? Dry off and head over the Boulder Elks Pool where the springboard and high dive await you, the snack bar has the best treats from your childhood and the manager is always open to requests as he finetunes the pool’s Spotify playlist.

Once you’ve gotten your fill of cannonballs and unintended belly flops, catch the Eldo Shuttle to Eldorado Swimming Pool. This 100+ year old attraction is a swimming experience unlike any other! Pack your hiking shoes, fishing poles or mountain bike too because the pool is located just outside Eldorado Canyon State Park.

5. Attend the Colorado Shakespeare Festival

The Colorado Shakespeare Festival is known for being ‘theater under the stars’ and is held annually on ��ӽ紫ý’s campus from June through August. There’s really no better way to see The Bard’s work than this. The 2023 lineup features five different plays and tickets can be purchased online.

6. Check out The Rec

Have you been considering trying the equipment and facilities, a fitness class or an instructional program at The Rec but hesitated to do so? This summer might be the best time to try it out. The Rec truly has something for everyone with state-of-the-art equipment, multiple pools and courts, a climbing gym, and a full line up of daily fitness classes and 4-8 week instructional programs. Access to the Rec’s facilities and general exercise equipment is free on Wednesdays from June 7 through Aug. 2 for all Buff OneCard holders if you’d like to check it out at no cost.

7. See a show at Red Rocks Amphitheater

Red Rocks Amphitheater is known as one of the best outdoor music venues in the world and is located just 40 minutes from Boulder. The venue attracts some of the best musical acts and comedians to its stage for unforgettable performances in an unforgettable setting. Be sure to get there early to enjoy the Colorado Music Hall of Fame, explore the grounds and take in the views.

If a Red Rocks concert is beyond your budget this summer, venues throughout Boulder County offer free and low-cost concerts to fill almost every night of the week. Check out some of our favorites including Chautauqua’s summer concert series, Lyon’s Planet Bluegrass, Pearl Street’s Bands on the Bricks, Longmont’s summer concert series and Louisville’s Street Faire.

8. Ready for a road trip? Visit a National Park

Rocky Mountain National Park is the closest option to Boulder. Rocky Mountain National Park's 415 square miles (265,807 acres) encompass a spectacular range of mountain environments and cross the Continental Divide. Be sure to plan ahead though, timed entry reservations are required between May 26 and Oct. 22.

Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve is located just four hours south of Boulder makes you feel as though you’ve been transported to another planet. Pack your goggles, rent a board from one of the many shops right outside the park and enjoy a day sledding down the tallest sand dunes in North America. In May and June you can splash (and sometimes float) in the Medano Creek which travels right through the park and creates a unique beach experience unlike any you’ve seen before. Visit the park’s website for the latest information on conditions in the park before you go.

If you're up for a longer drive, there are two additional parks located towards the southwest corner of the state. Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, located about five hours away near Montrose, is often referred to as the Grand Canyon of Colorado. This park exposes visitors to some of the steepest cliffs, oldest rocks and roughest spires in North America. Mesa Verde National Park, located about seven hours from Boulder, is a World Heritage Site and International Dark Sky Park. The park honors the rich heritage and culture of the ancestral Pueblo people who formerly lived there and protects the historic cliff dwellings they built.

There is so much to do in Colorado over the summer, even in your own backyard. Here’s our list of the must-do summer adventures in Boulder County and a few beyond.

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Mental health is... Moving your body

Anonymous — Fri, 31 Mar 2023 06:00:00 +0000

Mental health is... Moving your body Anonymous (not verified) Fri, 03/31/2023 - 00:00

Participating in regular movement (i.e. physical activity or exercise) has proven benefits for both our minds and bodies. Here are some tools to help you move your body in a safe and healthy way.

The benefits of movement

Oftentimes, when we think of movement, we automatically associate it with a sweat-inducing workout at the gym. However, movement can take a number of forms, and there’s no one-size-fits-all approach. In fact, all types of movement are beneficial for our bodies and minds. Here are just a few of the benefits of moving your body:

Releases endorphins and helps relieve stress
Allows us to take a break from everyday challenges and responsibilities
Helps emotions move through our bodies
Provides an outlet for self expression
Strengthens the connection we have with our bodies

Movement is a tangible and accessible coping mechanism for all abilities, fitness levels and ranges of mobility. It can also be a great outlet to meet people, build community and find support in tough times.

Evaluating our relationship with movement

While physical activity can benefit our mental health in many ways, it can also have a dark side. In some cases, we may use exercise as a way to exert control over our bodies, alter our appearance or use it to determine what we are allowed to eat. Here are a few things to consider when evaluating your own relationship with movement and exercise:

Intuitive relationship with movement:

Your routine...

Helps you feel connected with your body
Allows for rest and sick days
Makes you feel stronger, more flexible or have greater endurance
Helps you relieve stress and is enjoyable
Can move down on your priority list
Is responsive to your needs
Includes different types of movement
Is respectful of your body’s limits

Potentially harmful relationship with movement:

Your routine...

Is all or nothing
Allows for very few or no rest days
Doesn’t include breaks or time off for sick days or injuries
Must meet certain requirements to “count”
Feels like something you have to or are expected to do
Takes priority over other things in life (relationships, rest, socializing, etc.)
Causes you to feel upset or anxious if you miss a workout
Determines what you are allowed to eat based on activity level or calories burned

Making movement fun

Another way to build a more positive relationship with movement is to make it fun! Not only will you be more likely to engage in healthy movement, but it will also be easier to make it part of your routine if it’s something that brings you joy, improves your mood or helps you de-stress. Here’s how to get started:

There are so many different ways to move your body. Use these questions to figure out what kind of activities might speak to you:

Do you prefer to exercise alone or with other people?
Do you prefer indoor activities, outdoor activities or both?
What is your current fitness level?
How do you want to feel afterward (e.g. calm, energized, etc.)?

Once you’ve answered these questions, we recommend completing our Physical Activity Rating Worksheet. This worksheet allows you to browse through different types of activities and rate the ones that are most interesting to you. It’s important to remember to start where you’re at and what is comfortable for you. If an activity seems too strenuous, look for ways to adapt it to your own abilities and needs.

Physical Activity Interest Worksheet

*You can complete this PDF worksheet by filling it out on your computer, printing it or taking a screenshot on your phone.

Resources to help you get started

Whether you’re looking for something new or starting out as a novice, there are resources at ��ӽ紫ý that can help you get started.

Recreation Center
The Recreation Centers on campus offer a variety of programs, including inclusive rec, group fitness classes, small group training, personal training, outdoor trips, intramural sports, club sports and more.

BCycle
Interested in biking? Students can use BCycle for free! You can also rent a bike for the semester through the ECenter bike program.

Nutrition Services
If you have questions about nutrition, meal planning or eating healthy on a budget, Nutrition Services can help. They offer free consultations as well as one-on-one nutrition counseling services.

Student orgs
Exploring movement can be easier as a group. Buff Connect can help you find recreation- and wellness-focused groups to join on campus.

Peer Wellness Coaching
If you're unsure about getting professional support, you can work with a trained student instead. Peer wellness coaches can help you explore resources, create a routine and explore different types of movement.

Recreation Injury Care Center (RICC)
The Injury Care Center is open to all members of the Rec Center. They provide a number of services, including taping, injury assessment, referrals and more. They also have a library of preventive and rehabilitative exercises.

Physical Therapy and Integrative Care (PTIC)
Medical Services offers a number of rehabilitative services, including physical therapy, massage and acupuncture.

Student events
If you’re looking for events and programs to get involved in movement on campus, check out the Student Events page for more information.

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3 tips to create an at-home gym (for free)

Anonymous — Fri, 15 Jan 2021 21:41:36 +0000

3 tips to create an at-home gym (for free) Anonymous (not verified) Fri, 01/15/2021 - 14:41

Looking to make the most of your space at home? Here are some tips to help you create a functional at-home gym.

1: Designate a space

The first step in creating an at-home gym is to identify a space. Pick a room that meets your needs and can accommodate all of the activities you plan on doing. For instance, if you’re planning on doing movements like burpees, dancing or swinging kettlebells, it may be a good idea to find a space with ample room and high ceilings.

Don’t be afraid to get creative. Working out at home isn’t for everyone, and that’s okay! Consider how you can create a space for yourself outside, whether it’s on your deck, on your lawn, at a local park or at the outdoor Fitness Court.

Remember to be mindful of where you choose to workout, especially if you’re in a residence hall or apartment. Be respectful of your neighbors, especially in terms of noise (equipment, music, stomping, etc.). You can help reduce noise by wearing headphones, cushioning equipment with mats or pillows and working out on carpeted surfaces. If you live with roommates, talk about your plans and try to workout around everyone’s sleep and study schedules.

2: Gather your equipment

Don’t worry, you don’t need expensive or high-end gym equipment to get a good workout in. In fact, there are a ton of free and low-cost equipment options available. Here are a few ideas to help you get started:

Cardio

Walk, run, jog or hike on local trails
Bike for free with BCycle
Practice bodyweight exercises like lunges, jumping jacks or burpees
Follow along with The Rec’s free 10K training program
Check-out a jump rope or resistance bands from the Rec Center

Strength

Check out strength equipment from the Rec Center, including dumbbells, resistance bands and more
Practice bodyweight exercises like pushups, squats or step ups
Take a trip to the outdoor fitness court to practice circuits
Use items around your house like jugs of water, rocks, bricks or a backpack

Recovery

Practice yoga poses or follow along with a virtual stretching session
Invest in a foam roller to roll out major muscle groups
Get a lacrosse or tennis ball to help release tension from plantar fasciitis

3: Join a group

If you struggle to stay motivated or workout by yourself, don’t be afraid to look into group workout options. Here are just a few:

Virtual fitness classes: The Rec Center offers a variety of virtual fitness classes, including dance, strength training, yoga and more. Workouts are available as pre-recorded sessions, or you can join a live version. Check out the full schedule.
Virtual personal training: If you’re looking to improve your form or follow a customized workout plan, consider signing up for virtual personal training sessions. A certified personal trainer will work with you one-on-one to reach your fitness goals. Learn more about personal training at The Rec.
Outdoor Program: The Outdoor Program hosts a number of outdoor classes, trips and adventures ranging from avalanche safety and hiking to climbing and fly fishing. Their programs not only prepare you to plan your own trips, but they also allow you to enjoy group activities outside. Explore outdoor activities.

Health and Wellness Resources

There are a number of resources available on campus to help you improve your physical health and fitness.

Physical Therapy: Students can access physical therapy services through Medical Services at Wardenburg Health Center. Physical therapy is a great option for students looking to maximize movement, prevent and recover from injuries and avoid opioids or surgical interventions.
Massage: Certified massage therapists are available to assist with relaxation, stress reduction, sports recovery, improved circulation, pain management and decreasing muscle spasms. Massage services are available for students, staff and faculty.
Acupuncture: Licensed acupuncturists use tiny needles to stimulate points along the body’s energy flow channels to improve health. Acupuncture can be useful for back or neck pain, fatigue, digestive disorders, stress and more.
Recreation Injury Care Center: Certified athletic trainers provide a number of free services, including evaluations and referrals, first aid and emergency care, baseline concussion testing, performance and recovery strategies, taping, stretching techniques and more. RICC is open to Rec Center members who are injured while participating in programs or at Rec Center facilities.

More Health & Wellness Articles

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Outdoors

A Boulder and beyond bucket list of must-do summer adventures

1. ​Tube the Boulder Creek

2. Celebrate the 4th at Ralphie’s Independence Day Blast

3. Eat hyperlocal

4. Pool hop through Boulder County

5. Attend the Colorado Shakespeare Festival

6. Check out The Rec

7. See a show at Red Rocks Amphitheater

8. Ready for a road trip? Visit a National Park

Off

Mental health is... Moving your body

The benefits of movement

Evaluating our relationship with movement

Intuitive relationship with movement:

Potentially harmful relationship with movement:

Making movement fun

Resources to help you get started

Off

3 tips to create an at-home gym (for free)

1: Designate a space

2: Gather your equipment

3: Join a group

Health and Wellness Resources

Off

1. Tube the Boulder Creek