This week, the YMCA and the United Way kicked off registration for their Get Fit Be Fit Mower County Healthy Living Challenge. We like the idea because it’s a way for residents to keep an eye on their eating and exercise habits during the winter months as the official start of the program is Jan. 6.

Wednesday, the Austin Parks, Recreation and Forestry board approved free cross country ski rental on Thursdays after school until 6 p.m. from Jan. 8 and Feb. 26 at the J.C. Hormel Nature Center.

The offer is good for ages 15 and under.

Here’s another good opportunity for our kids to get some exercise and the rest of the family to join them.

We are fortunate in Austin to have cross country trails and outdoor ice rinks that give us some nice options for exercise and to have fun during a time of year when going outside can be miserable.

The free ski rental is a win-win situation. It helps out parents during a tough economy, and hopefully it will get more skiers on the trails this season for Parks and Rec.