Listen to report here.

 

We’re a week into the stay-at-home order in the midst of a cold Canadian winter. While these are difficult days, many Zoomers are making the most of it by venturing outdoors to improve their mental and physical health.

Gord Hunter and wife Ginette Blais are weekend hockey warriors who spend hours on a frozen pond near Napanee.

“It’s really important for us to get out into the fresh air, we’re in lockdown but we’re being safe by wearing our masks, we’re staying two metres apart from everybody but we’re outside every day,” said Ginette.

 

 

 

 

 

 

“In the midst of a state of emergency and stay-at-home-order, it can be really trying and so this kind of physical exercise, getting out feeling a little bit better about yourself is really important,” added Gord.

Zoomer Mike Hogan has been working from home since March.

“I don’t have a two hour GO train commute everyday and I’ve decided to take that two hours and do something productive with it and I’ve been walking 90 minutes a day, I feel great, lost some weight, it’s perfect.”

Even the province’s top doctor David Williams is encouraging us to get outside.

“I still see people outside doing their walk, with their family, spouse or partner, or with their dogs, so that’s good that you continue to do that,” urged Dr. Williams.

If you’re looking for a safe wide open space to walk and exercise, explore 290 acres at Toronto’s Downsview Park .

“We have a winter tree ID program, a winter birding program, and we have some fun things coming up in February,” said Allison Best, Manager of Education and Community programs.

Gord Hunter argues it’s a rite of passage to get outside in winter.

“As Canadians, it’s important that if we don’t skate at least once a year, we lose our membership.”

For more in the winter programs offered at Downsview Park visit