Going in for sports!

Russia is one of the most successful countries at a number of sports. Among the most played sports in Russia are football, ice hockey and basketball. Other sports widely played in Russia include bandy, team handball, weightlifting, gymnastics, boxing, wrestling, martial arts, volleyball, rugby union and skiing. All these sports have their strong supporters. In our country much attention is paid to organized sports and this shouldn't overshadow the many sporting activities which are a part of daily Russian life. 

Most Russians who grow up in the North, especially in Karelia, grow with outdoor winter sports and activities. Skating is a wide-spread activity. There are two skating rinks in the center of Petrozavodsk where you can rent skates. But don’t forget you passport and some money as a pledge!

Skiing is one of the most popular sports in wintry Karelia. According to recent estimates, about five hundred people ski regularly or occasionally. This year our government‘s managed to open world-class ground for biathlon. So now the ski trials are of perfect quality! While skiing you will be surrounded by sparkling snow caps of giant pines and firs, by the majestic winter scenery. The clear air and the endless snowy forest will make you feel healthier and happier! You can rent all the equipment.

Have you ever heard about winter kiting (kite surfing)?! Kiting is one of the fastest growing sports in the world today. Here in Petrozavodsk there is a great possibility to learn kiting on the lake Onega covered by ice! If you're interested in easy recreational flying fun or some serious adrenaline highs, you can use your kite for thrilling activities like skidding or body surfing. In Petrozavodsk there is a special school which helps you to master this winter activity! The instructors are the winners of many world competitions. 

Another way of spending time in Petrozavodsk in winter is going to “Gorka. It is our popular center of active rest! There you can find not only skating rink with skates in rent, mountain skiing, but also you can enjoy riding on an inflatable sledges called “Vatrushka”! It’s very fun! Every grownup will feel himself as a child! 

For those who prefer usual recreation we advise to visit swimming pool, where Finnish and Turkish saunas are proposed, different relaxing and massaging showers will make you feel better! 

Many sports club are situated in different districts of Petrozavodsk! You may choose the one you like: with an instructor or not, with sauna or with massage or with beauty shop.

Sport is very important to people of all ages. It provides not only a means to get healthier, but also provides people with fun recreation. Sport is important because it teaches children and people of all ages how to work together as a team, and it stresses the importance of team work. It also gives people a sense of competition, and teaches one another good sportsmanship.

So, dear friends, when learning Russian in our Russian Language School “Enjoy Russian” don’t forget to pay attention for sport!!!