Embracing Winter as a PE Opportunity
Wisconsin winters can be long and cold — but for PE teachers, they're also an incredible opportunity. Rather than retreating entirely indoors, many Wisconsin schools are using the snowy season to introduce students to lifetime winter activities that build fitness, resilience, and a genuine love of the outdoors.
Outdoor winter PE not only increases student engagement but also teaches skills students can enjoy well beyond their school years.
Popular Winter Sports for Wisconsin School PE Programs
Cross-Country Skiing
Cross-country skiing is one of the most popular winter PE activities in Wisconsin schools, particularly in northern and central regions. It develops cardiovascular endurance, balance, and coordination. Many schools partner with local trail systems or state parks to access groomed trails. Equipment can often be borrowed or rented through community programs and district resources.
Snowshoeing
Snowshoeing is accessible, low-cost, and requires minimal instruction — making it ideal for elementary through high school. Students can explore school grounds or nearby natural areas. It's an excellent aerobic activity that can be combined with orienteering or nature study for cross-curricular learning.
Ice Skating
Skating rinks — both indoor arenas and community outdoor rinks — are found throughout Wisconsin. Ice skating develops balance, agility, and lower body strength. Many PE programs arrange field trips to local rinks or take advantage of school-adjacent outdoor ice. Basic hockey skills and recreational skating are both appropriate depending on grade level.
Broomball and Floor Hockey
When outdoor conditions aren't ideal, broomball (on ice or gym floors) and floor hockey are excellent gym-based alternatives that maintain the spirit of winter sports while keeping everyone warm and safe.
Sled-Based Activities
For younger students, sledding on a controlled school hill can be a joyful, developmentally appropriate PE experience. It builds confidence, spatial awareness, and gross motor skills — and kids absolutely love it.
Safety Considerations for Outdoor Winter PE
- Layer appropriately: Teach students the base/mid/outer layer system and communicate dress requirements to families in advance.
- Monitor wind chill: Follow district protocols for minimum temperature thresholds before heading outdoors. Many districts cancel outdoor PE below certain wind chills.
- Hydration: Students may not feel thirsty in cold air but still need water. Build hydration breaks into lessons.
- Visibility: In low-light or snowy conditions, ensure students wear bright clothing and stay within supervised boundaries.
- Equipment checks: Inspect skates, skis, and snowshoes regularly for safety and proper fit.
Connecting Winter Sports to PE Standards
Winter activities align strongly with Wisconsin PE Standards, particularly:
- Standard 1 – Students practice motor skills specific to skiing, skating, and snowshoeing.
- Standard 3 – Aerobic winter sports contribute directly to health-enhancing fitness.
- Standard 5 – Outdoor winter sports foster enjoyment and a lifelong value for physical activity.
Getting Started: Practical Tips
- Survey your community for available equipment — check with local parks departments, community centers, or ski clubs.
- Apply for grants through WAHPERD or local foundations to fund equipment purchases.
- Start with a single winter activity and expand your program as resources and experience grow.
- Invite community volunteers or local athletes to demonstrate skills and share their passion for winter sports.
Wisconsin's winters don't have to mean months of indoor gym circuits. With a little planning, they can become the most memorable and educational part of your PE program.