WATCH: Many are choosing to ring in the New Year by taking a month off from drinking for “Dry January.” Ceilidh Millar reports.
Bouldering is a sport that requires skill, strength and endurance.
“It’s just like an adult jungle gym,” said one climber.
Boulderhouse Climbing in Victoria has seen an increase in customers this month as people tackle their New Year’s resolutions.
“It’s been really busy with people getting into their New Year’s resolutions after having a couple weeks off, drinking lots and eating lots,” said owner Robert Somogyi.
It turns out that fitness isn’t the only way people are tackling that dreaded holiday hangover this year.
Millions around the world are temporarily cutting out alcohol for “Dry January.”
“It involves people taking the challenge of giving up alcohol completely for one month,” said Tim Stockwell with the Canadian Institute of Substance Use Research.
A recent study from the University of Sussex found that participating in “Dry January” can lead to better health and financial benefits throughout the year.
The research showed that 88 percent of participants found they saved money, 71 per cent slept better and 58 per cent reported losing weight.
Dr. Stockwell says it can also help people improve their relationship with alcohol.
“They really discovered it wasn’t the drink that made them enjoy themselves when they were out,” Dr. Stockwell explained. “It was being out with people.”
While the challenge isn’t for everyone, experts say even a gradual decrease in alcohol consumption can have lasting effects.
Trading in booze to try something new like bouldering.
“It’s like exercise without you even knowing it,” said Somogyi. “You’re challenging your mind just as much as your body and focusing on completing the obstacles.”
Ceilidh Millar
