During the early weeks of the pandemic, I felt pretty pessimistic about my summer 2020 prospects. I realized pretty early on that my men’s soccer team was not going to be able to compete this season and my planned road trip to California in July was almost certainly going to be cancelled. Between pleas from the government to stay at home as much as possible to stop the spread of COVID-19 and uncertainty around how long stay-at-home orders would last, I figured this summer was going to be a bit of a bust.
I’ve had a change of heart in recent weeks, however, as the number of COVID-19 cases in Alberta continues to trend downward and restrictions on activities, businesses and amenities are lifted. While I know attending large-scale festivals, vacations and sporting events is still not realistic in the near future, there are many fun ways to salvage the summer and get outdoors to enjoy the nice weather.
For instance, plenty of fun outdoor activities such as biking, hiking and floating down the Bow or Elbow rivers are already possible with the restrictions currently in place. I have gone on two hikes in Kananaskis Country already this spring and feel pretty confident I did not come within two metres of any other hikers. The same goes for riding my bike, which I have done plenty this spring.
If you live with someone, there are many activities you can do outside to keep entertained. My girlfriend and I go to the park near our condo building almost every evening, whether it’s to throw a football or frisbee around or play bocce – we bought a set at Dollarama for just $4. We also like to walk to the nearby nature parks in our area and take photos of wildlife.
If you live alone but still crave socialization, it’s pretty easy to see friends and still practise physical distancing. For example, having a picnic in the park, while sitting on separate blankets two metres apart and not sharing food, is allowed as far as I know. Going for a bike ride with a friend is another way to spend time together without coming into close contact with each other.
Since I’m not able to play soccer, swim or go to the gym – my preferred modes of exercise – for the foreseeable future, I’m also thinking of trying other physical activities this year like golf and tennis that I haven’t done much before.
I should mention I’m not encouraging anyone to go full steam ahead with their summer socializing – I’m not advocating large-scale gatherings, pick-up basketball games, parties or anything of that ilk. It's important to be cautious and safe. But with summer on our doorstep, it would be a shame to waste the warm weather we have on the horizon.
