Recreation at Home

Sport & Recreation at Home

Sport & Recreation is committed to ensuring the community has access to resources that contribute to increased health and wellness

Keeping busy with various activities

Many recreational and sporting activities require multiple players and teams to compete with. During this time of uncertainty and social distancing, we can still be practicing and working on advancing our skills on our own. If you lack the equipment or space to do this, try getting creative! Check out some of the ways others in the KPU community are practicing and keeping their skills sharp!


The term E-Sports refers to Electronic Sports and is also known as competitive video gaming or professional gaming. E-Sports is considered a legitimate sport and is a fast growing international phenomenon.

Organized E-sports can contribute to strong social connections among students. Passionate ‘gamers’ have the opportunity to meet each other, build teams, work on communication, as well as strengthen social connections.

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E-Sports Coming Soon

The accessibility of E-Sports is so tremendous that all the benefits listed above are possible among students who live on opposite ends of the globe, or even those that are within the same city but not able to connect in person for any reason.

KPU Sport Rec will be hosting 3 Tournaments throughout the Summer Semester of 2021.

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Fortnite

May 27/28

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Rocket League

June 17/18

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Fifa

July 8/9

You can keep your eye on our E-Sports page (currently under construction).

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Alpine Skiing

While the origins of Skiing are hotly debated, most agree that prior to the mid-19th century it was primarily used as a form of transportation before evolving into a winter sport. As ski equipment evolved, two main genres of skiing emerged.

Alpine or downhill skiing arguably the more popular of the two genres is typically enjoyed at ski resorts around the world where ski lifts, snow grooming and ski patrol is common place. Nordic or cross country skiing differs from Alpine in several ways, including the bindings that allow a person’s heel to lift of the ground. This would be a similar stride to snowshoes which interestingly was also a form of transportation prior to becoming a recreational activity.

Here in British Columbia, we are lucky to have several local mountains that are equipped with ski hills. Many of these resorts offer beginner to advance lessons. Here are a few locations to check out if you want to try your hand at skiing:

Alpine Skiing

  • Mt. Seymour - Has 40 runs, 3 chairs and approximately 200 acres of terrain
  • Grouse Mountain - 33 daytime ski runs, 15 night ski runs, 5 terrain parks, 4 chairs
  • Cypress Mountain – Offers 52 downhill ski run accessed by 6 chair lifts

Nordic Skiing

  • Cypress Mountain - Offers 19 km of track set Cross Country Skiing trails
  • Whistler Olympic Park - Over 100 km of trails rated beginner to expert
  • Manning Park – Has approximately 64 km of trails to choose from


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Outdoor Series: Skiing

 

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Snowshoeing
If you love hiking than you will be happy to learn that many of our amazing trails in B.C can be accessed during the winter months via snowshoes. Snowshoes distribute a person’s weight equally over a larger area preventing someone from sinking entirely into the snow. Unless you are breaking trail backcountry, the best type of snowshoes for our climate are ones intended for hard/wet snow. They have added traction on the bottom increasing the grip and allowing for steeper inclines.

Historically, snowshoes were used by traders to trek through terrain during intense and deep snowfall. These days it has become a popular reactional activity primarily used by hikers wanting to continue their sport during the colder months.

Snowshoeing is a relatively inexpensive activity and can be suitable for a variety of ages and fitness levels. Similar to hiking, there are a range of trails to choose from and even if you don’t purchase snowshoes, rentals are often easy to find and accessible. Here are a few local trails to try out!

Dog Mountain on Mount Seymour

  • Level: Beginner
  • Length: 5KM
  • Duration: 2-3 Hours

First Peak on Mount Seymour

  • Level: Moderate
  • Length: 8KM
  • Duration: 4-5 Hours

Bowen Lookout on Cypress Mountain

  • Level: Beginner
  • Length: 3.5KM
  • Duration: 1.5-2 Hours

Hollyburn Peak on Cypress Mountain

  • Level: Challenging
  • Length: 7KM      
  • Duration: 4-5 Hours

Snowshoe Grind on Grouse Mountain

  • Level: Moderate
  • Length: 4.3KM
  • Duration: 1-2 Hours

For more information on all these trails, check out: www.outdoorvancouver.ca and www.trailpeak.com

Remember to practice safety protocols and be prepared for changes in weather patterns.  

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DIY Holiday
The holidays are drawing near, and budgets may be tighter than ever. Are you feeling pressure to buy gifts for your close friends or family members? You’re not the only one: Over 90 percent of students in a recent CampusWell survey feel the same. If gift-giving is part of your holiday tradition—don’t stress. Personalized, do-it-yourself (DIY) gifts are not only budget-friendly, they also help promote a sense of closeness that many of us are missing due to physical distancing. Check out this article from CampusWell for a guide to affordable and thoughtful gifts for the holidays: https://kpu.campuswell.ca/diy-holiday-gifts-budget/

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Halloween
Halloween is upon us again! To get you in the mood, we have compiled a list of our favourite Horror movies over the last few decades:

  • The Others (2001)
  • The Sixth Sense (1999)
  • The Conjuring (2013)
  • The Invisible Man (2020)
  • A Quiet Place (2018)
  • Get Out (2017)
  • IT (2017)
  • Hereditary (2018)
  • The Shinning (1980)
  • The Ring (2002)
  • Scream (1996)
  • Aliens (1986)
  • Sinister (2012)
  • Psycho (1960)
  • The Cabin in the Woods (2012)
  • Cloverfield (2008)
  • Paranormal Activity (2007)
  • The Mist (2007)
  • US (2019)
  • 28 Days Later (2003)

Don’t want to watch a movie alone?

As part of Thrive Month, Student Health Promotion is hosting a movie night on Thursday, October 29th @ 4pm, where we will be screening, “A Quite Place” on Microsoft Teams to celebrate Halloween!

Pop your popcorn, grab a cozy blanket, and get ready to be spooked during this creepy post-apocalyptic film!

You can find the link to this event and many more:  https://www.kpu.ca/thrive/thrivemonth

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Punpkin patch

  1. Pumpkin Patch – Nothing says Fall quite like visiting a pumpkin patch! You will find farms in Abbotsford, Delta, Langley, Maple Ridge, Richmond, Surrey and Vancouver with a host of fun activities such as petting farm animals, picking your own pumpkin and exploring corn mazes.
  2. Hike – With our temperate climate, Metro Vancouver is a greater place to hike. Check out websites such as www.outdoorvancouver.ca and www.alltrails.com to find trails for all fitness levels and ages.
  3. Haunted Corn Maze -  Mann Farm in Abbotsford features a number of corn mazes that are suitable for all ages. After dark though, the place transforms to a spooky place for the adult kid! This year there will be an ultra-scary maze, with lots of live actors but with COVID precautions. https://www.maanfarms.com/haunted-2020/
  4. Drive-in Theatre – Now’s the time to check out Greater Vancouver’s only Drive-In theatre. Located in Langley, this theatre is currently featuring classic and new horror movies to get you in the mood for Halloween. http://twilightdrivein.net/
  5. Visit local Vancouver attractions like Stanley Park, Van Dusen Garden’s, Queen Elizabeth Park, Grouse Mountain, Capilano Suspension Bridge or Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden.

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Watching tv
Thanksgiving is just around the corner! To get you in the mood, Sport & Rec has put together a few of our favourite Thanksgiving TV episodes:

“The One with All the Thanksgivings” – Friends (Season 5)

In our opinion, no list is complete without an episode of Friends. This one is a flash back episode where both Monica and Joey get their heads stuck in a turkey.

“A Deep-Fried Korean Thanksgiving” – The Gilmore Girls (Season 3)

Anyone who has had to frantically rush from dinner to dinner will relate to this episode. Not only does it push the limits to Rory and Lorelai’s capacity to indulge in food but it also features the ever hilarious, Melissa McCarthy.

“Slapsgiving” – How I Met Your Mother (Season 5)

This episode was hard to top as it continues the shows longest running gag and birthed the annual tradition of slapsgiving.

“Bart vs. Thanksgiving” – The Simpsons (Season 2)

Talk about a throw-back episode. This much loved show brought us great holiday moments over the years but this one stood out to us.

“Movable Feast” – Will & Grace (Season 4)

Will & Grace has a tone of great holiday episodes and this is one of them. Watch for the return of the ugly turtleneck sweater and Rosario eating and entire turkey.

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Paddleboarding
Stand-up paddleboarding aka SUP, has become wildly popular these last few years. Not only is it a great full body workout, it also gives a much better perspective on the water than being in a kayak or canoe. Vancouver and the lower mainland are some of the best places to SUP because of our temperate climate and scenic surroundings. While paddleboarding might be an optimal summer activity, many including myself, use a wetsuit and continue paddling through the spring and fall months as well.

Here are some great SUP destinations:

Deep Cove – Possibly one of the most picturesque places in the lower mainland, Deep Cove offers paddleboarders a sheltered area to hone their skills. You will often find an inquisitive seal or otter popping its head out of the water along the way.

Crescent Beach – Crescent Beach is a hidden gem! With its calm waters it is a great location for beginners to learn to paddleboard.

Green Lake – This glacial lake is stunning with its green water that gives it its name. Just 5 minutes from Whistler, this lake is just off the main highway and has a boat launch area that is ideal for paddleboarding.

White Pine Beach –  White Pine Beach at Sasamat Lake is a great spot get some paddling during the summer. The lake is usually quite calm so you won’t have to worry about tides.

Kitsilano Beach – Depending on where you launch, you could either head to Granville island or False Creek for some grub. If you are feeling more adventurous and want to take on some surf, Jericho beach is a great stop to head over to.

Please be mindful that oceans and lakes have currents and no matter how good a swimmer you are it is always important to wear a lifejacket or personal floatation device. Be safe and you’ll always have a blast!

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Fishing
Fishing began as a necessity as a way to catch food and provide for one’s family. For some this is still the case, but it has also become a commercialized business that helps provide a food source to people across the world.

Here we are focusing on the recreation activity of fishing! There are many different styles of fishing, as well as different acts of catching fish. Some people use the concept of catch and release, catching their fish and then releasing it back in to nature. Others still use fishing as a form of catching food. Regardless of the type of fishing you are doing there are many benefits and reasons to go fishing!

Reasons to Fish

  • Contribute to conservation – with purchase of your fishing license, money goes towards helping and funding wildlife conservation programs. Awareness of the importance of clean water, air and protecting and preserving the environment and habitats.
  • Stress relief – enjoying the outdoors, we often associate with the word freedom. Spending a day within nature and not a care in the world is definitely a great way to relax.
  • Social Bonding – great activity to do with family and friends. Also the chance to give back to society through mentorship and helping others.
  • Supports wildlife and fisheries management – having a vested interest in and support many efforts to help preserve and protect species and the environment.
  • Health benefits – a great way to stay healthy and active. This is also an activity that can burn unwanted calories, increase the quality of your lifestyle and add years to your life.
  • Recreation – it’s a fun activity to do! Regardless of whether you have a bad day fishing, it still beats working in an office.
  • Self-fulfillment – helps to improve your self-esteem by respecting your environment, learning outdoor skills and achieving personal goals.
  • Fishing for food – wild fish are low in fat and cholesterol and high in protein, and it is recommended to have fish as part of a regular diet.
  • The thrill – the thrill lies in the challenge!

** If you wish to start fishing, you do need to have a proper fishing license.


Lawn games are a great option to get outside and play some recreational activities still falling within the social distancing protocols. Below are just a few great game options for you and your “bubble”. All of these activities allow for each participant to have their own equipment, making these COVID friendly activities as there is no transfer of items from one person to the next.

Bocce

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This game can be played with players of 2, 3, or 4 or even teams! Each individual or team will have 2 bocce balls, the point is to get your ball closest to the white targeted ball. The player or team whose ball is the closest to the target gets a point. The scoring of the game varies and can be between 7-13 points – depending on the agreed amount at the start of the game.

Croquet

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Each player has their own coloured ball and mallet, the point of the game is to hit your own ball through the white fenced course to the end post. All players take a turn, if they hit their ball through a white fence they receive an additional turn. Game can be played with 2-6 players, and the course can be changed every time making every game feel challenging and new!

Corn Hole/Bean Bag Toss

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This game can be played 1v1 or 2v2, players stand on opposing sides shooting their bean bags towards the opposing team's box. The point of the game is to get your own bean bag into the hole of your opponent's box. If the bag gets into the hole the player or team is rewarded with 3 points. If the bean bag lands on the box, 1 point is rewarded.


Being on the water has always been a favorite activity of mine – it does not matter if I am in a pool, a lake, a river, or even the ocean. While there are many activities that one can enjoy in the water, I would like to focus on wake boarding and alternatives. Wake boarding is a fun activity to do in the summer time and being in the water is a great way to escape the heat. Wakeboarding involves being dragged behind a boat on a ‘snowboard style’ board. It is always important when boating that you have all your safety gear and that the driver of the boat carries proof of competence such as a Pleasure Craft Operators Card.

The term wake refers to the jet of water that is pushed out behind the boat – almost appearing like a tail behind that boat that gets calmer and wider the further away from the boat it gets. This wake often creates a nice natural ridge of water that can act as a ramp for the boarder to jump across.

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boat wake

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Wake Surfing

Wakeboarding is like snowboarding where you are strapped into your board and you can launch from wake to wake performing a barrage of incredible stunts.

Wakeskating is like skate boarding, you are not strapped to your board, and while you can jump wake to wake this is more difficult since your feet will temporarily lose contact with the board. A successful land requires you to land on the board properly.

Wakesurfing consists of using a small modified style surfboard. Once you are good enough you can let go of the rope that is towing you and surf until you fall! This is made possible by adding extra weight to the stern of the boat so it drags through the water.

Regardless of how you choose to enjoy the water there are various activities and locations that you can visit and enjoy. Always be aware of your safety and never underestimate the danger that is present in lakes, rivers, and oceans.

 
 

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When I think of camping, I think of waking up with the sun, disconnecting from my phone, enjoying the present moment and the time spent with others. Some of my favourite things to do while camping is swimming, sitting in the sun, hanging out around a camp fire, and star gazing.

There’s nothing like getting away from the city noise and enjoying the simpler things in life.As our vacation plans have been cancelled, camping is a great alternative to get out and explore our own backyard.

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Camping1

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Camping2

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I recently moved to British Columbia, and I have been having so much fun getting to explore my new backyard this summer through camping! My favorite part about camping is reconnecting with nature, especially when the only sounds you can hear are the birds in the forest and the crackle of the camp fire. I also really enjoy going for hikes in the forest and viewing all of the massive Douglas Fir trees.

This year, we have been visiting a few of BC’s beautiful provincial parks that are all within driving distance from the Lower Mainland, such as Cultus Lake Provincial Park and Golden Ears Provincial Park. Camping is a great summer activity for physical distancing with your “bubble”!
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Nothing makes me happier than being in the backcountry with barely anyone else around. Car camping can be lots of fun and great if you have kids but if you are looking for some adventure, nothing beats a hike or paddle in campsite. Here in British Columbia we are lucky to have lots to explore. Over the last decade, I’ve had the opportunity to explore the Canadian backcountry and the magic has never worn off. From the vastness of the wilderness to the serene sound of nature, there are no words that can truly express the experience.

That said, if you’re headed on a backcountry trip, take the time to ensure you have adequate first aid, navigation and survival skills. Having the right gear and knowing how to use it, is also incredibly important. Lastly, know how to deal with wildlife, monitor the weather conditions and remember to always pack your garbage out. Mother nature is an incredible force so always show respect and be mindful of your surroundings. Be prepared and you will have the time of your life!
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Camping3

 

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If you have some free time on your hands why not use it to make a scrapbook.

It’s a great place to gather your memories , thoughts , paintings, future aspirations and inspiration. In my scrapbook I included ; my bucket list , what I want my future to look like , positive affirmations, a list of things that make me happy.

Similarly you can include anything you want as you have the creative freedom to do so. Its a great way to unwind and destress.

 

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As we have adapted to working or studying from home all areas in the house are up for grabs! Check out these student submissions of their new set ups, whether it’s messy or clean we wanted to see!

 
 


Check out Version 2 of Hamper Hoops! This time we add vertical distance into the challenge. If you missed version 1 of Hamper Hoops you can check it out here!

 

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Happy Canada Day

July 1st we celebrate Canada Day! This day is usually filled with large crowds and parades but this year as we social distance through health regulations there are many ways we can still celebrate online.

I was never big in to swimming, but on a paddle board or kayak I am game! This is a great activity to do whether it is just for an afternoon or a full excursion. I find it so fascinating to think that you can have all your camping supplies and gear with you packed in to this flotation device, no worries of it getting wet or damaging your personal belongings.

When I’m out in the water it feels so serene and calming as the waves push you up and down. I also love all the nature you see from on the water, it’s completely different from hiking. Having a seal swim next to you or pop their heads up, it is a very cool experience.

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Kayak1

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Kayak2

Multi-day kayak trips are a great way to explore B.C’s amazing coastline. Camping out of your kayak offers a feeling of freedom that few adventures on shore can match. While our coastal waters can be tricky to navigate, there are routes that accommodate all levels of experience. There are lots of backcountry campsites that feature beautiful white sand beaches and reefs that are only accessible by boat, kayak or canoe. Personally, one of my favorite local routes is through the broken island group off the coast of Vancouver Island. That said, don’t let the calm waters fool you, the afternoon currents can be hazardous so always remember to check the tides and current patterns before leaving shore.

If you’re a newbie and are looking for a relatively easy overnight trip, Granite Falls up the Indian Arm is a great place to start. Setting off from Cate’s park or Deep cove and heading up the inlet will take you to a gorgeous waterfall with a campsite located next to it.

For more routes and tips check out: https://www.bcmarinetrails.org/

 

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Stimulating the mind is so important and can be done with many different activities and games. Sport & Rec has created its own crossword for you to try! All words are related to our Sport & Rec offerings and our At Home webpage content.

As the weather changes over and we start to spend more time outside enjoying the wilderness, the Sport & Rec team has shared their own experiences and adventures of hiking! We hope that as you read our experiences they spark you to get out and go hiking yourself. We have each picked our favourite hikes and below are some great B.C. trail guides to help you find the right hike for you.

This week we celebrate National Health and Fitness Day! And what better way to get moving then to try this scavenger hunt?! This document helps to guide you through a scavenger hunt around your home, backyard and neighbourhood.

All items are worth a specific point amount based on the difficulty to find them. Try sharing this document to challenge friends and family to do the same in their own homes! Compare scores and items you found together or over video chat!

Even though we are at home with unknown future travels and vacations doesn’t mean we still can’t explore the world! Check out our virtual tour document with a ton of different links to international museums, zoos, aquariums and landmarks!

There is something in here for everyone, including kid friendly options, like the NASA app and the Zoo and Aquarium live videos. Find what interests you and get exploring!

Looking for something new to pick up during this time? A great hobby to try is gardening! Even though this is a recreational activity, gardening is still physically tasking allowing you to still get a great workout in. Not only will you break a sweat but you will also reap the benefits of a beautiful garden that you have created!

There are many easy ways to get started, check out this document that can help give you some tips as a beginner gardener and inform you of some of the benefits of growing your own plants.

Looking for something that you don’t have to get creative with? Try pulling out a puzzle! No need to tune in to your creative side with this recreational activity, however there are many benefits to doing puzzles!

Some of the benefits of puzzle solving for adults include:

  • Improved memory
  • Better problem solving skills
  • Improved visual spatial reasoning
  • More educational opportunities
  • Increased IQ
  • Delay dementia and Alzheimer’s
  • Improved mood
  • Lower stress levels
  • Increased attention to detail
  • Increased productivity
  • Better collaboration

If you don’t have any puzzles at home you can check out many online retail stores to get one delivered to you.

 
 
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channeling-creativity

Art therapy is a way of expressing yourself through creativity! During this unprecedented time stress levels and emotions are high and the use of art therapy has shown to reduce stress and help with the release of emotions through non-verbal actions.

See the Sport & Rec document for some ideas and resources on how you can channel your creative edge and release some of those uncontrollable stressors.

Dancing is a great way to spend some free time. Put on music that makes you move and just start to dance. Whether you are a professional or a beginner, it truly doesn't matter. Dancing helps improve:

  • muscular strength
  • muscular endurance
  • heart and lung function

Research also shows that dancing is great for cognitive function as well as your mood.

As we stay home the access to sports, recreational activities and equipment is limited.

  • We have created a downloadable pdf that can give you some ideas of recreational activities to do while at home.
  • This document includes ways to modify your favourite sport, create/make new projects or activities to do with your kids and family.

There’s something listed here for everyone!

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Activities at Home

Check out the videos below as they spark ideas or options of activities you can do at home. Equipment can be handy for most sports or activities but the use of household items can substitute for many different objects. Now you try!