Newswise — Winter sports such as skating, skiing and snowshoeing are great forms of exercise. But cold temperatures, snow, ice, and fear of injury may discourage some people from getting outside and being active. The following CIHR-supported researchers are available to offer tips on how to enjoy winter sports safely based on the latest scientific evidence.

What are the benefits and challenges of being physically active in winterDr. Jane Aubin, Scientific Director, CIHR Institute of Musculoskeletal Health and Arthritis (Toronto)

Why warming up is important and how it prepares your body for activityDr. Phillip Gardiner, University of Manitoba (Winnipeg)

How to protect your skin and prevent frostbiteDr. Jensen Yeung, Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre (Toronto)

How to reduce the risk of injury for skiers and snowboardersDr. Claude Goulet, Université Laval (Quebec City)

How to prevent injuries in youth hockeyDr. Carolyn Emery, University of Calgary

How to safely introduce young children to winter sports and special considerations for children with arthritisDr. Lori Tucker, BC Children’s Hospital and Child & Family Research Institute (Vancouver)

For the past 10 years, the Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR) has supported better health and healthcare for Canadians. As the Government of Canada’s health research investment agency, CIHR enables the creation of evidence-based knowledge and its transformation into improved treatments, prevention and diagnoses, new products and services, and a stronger, patient-oriented healthcare system. Composed of 13 internationally-recognized institutes, CIHR supports more than 13,600 health researchers and trainees across Canada.