DAVIS COUNTY — Now that the Thanksgiving leftovers are safely in the refrigerator, there’s still just enough time to work off that turkey and gravy before the Christmas goodies start to hit.

For those looking to get moving, Davis County offers several easy, low-stress recreation activities that can either be started right away or kick in just after Christmas and New Year’s. From running to basketball to volleyball, they offer a chance to hang out with friends and enjoy a more active holiday season.

South Davis Running Club

Running in the cold may not be some people’s idea of a fun time, but it’s always a lot easier when you have someone waiting for you.

The South Davis Running Club, which started in fall 2007, is a group of runners that meet Saturday mornings at various locations throughout Davis County to travel a set course together. People of all skill levels are welcome and encouraged to take part in the runs.

“Runners are kind of their own breed,” said Lora Erickson, a running coach and one of the founders of the group. The group recently did a preview run of the South Davis Recreation Center’s Thanksgiving 5K. “It’s important for us to be able to network with each other.”

The runs are divided into set loops that can range anywhere from three to 14 miles, and though even the shorter distance might seem intimidating to beginners runners are free to go at their own pace. In addition, there are also out-and-back routes that allow runners to either shorten or lengthen their route as needed.

Runners of different speeds and endurances are encouraged to find one another and tackle their loop of choice together. Anyone looking to take part should e-mail lora@blondr-unner.com or visit the group’s website at www.sdroadrunners.com.

When running in winter, it’s important to dress in layers so you can shed them if you get too hot. Because the warming effect of running kicks in quickly, Erickson also suggests dressing about 10 degrees cooler than you normally would to start out.

City Sports

Though city recreation programs are more often associated with summer fun, there are a few sports that wait for temperatures to plunge before taking to the courts.

In the city leagues players register as an entire team, allowing players to find the right mix of teammates and corresponding stress levels.

For men, both Farmington and Layton’s basketball programs are accepting registration now through Dec. 5 (for Farmington) or Dec. 31 (for Layton). Games will be played at either Farmington Jr. High or Central Davis Jr. High, depending on the city.

In Farmington players must be 17 or older to play, though the Layton league will accept people a year younger. In Farmington, the teams are promised at least eight games of play, and the winner of the end-of-season tournament will receive a trophy.

For those who might be missing the beach, Layton also currently has open registration for their winter volleyball league. Play is open to both men and women, though all team members need to be 16 years old or older.

Games will be held at both Layton High School and Central Davis Jr. High.

For prices, to register, or for more information, please visit either www.farmington.utah.g-ov or www.laytoncity.org.

jwardell@davisclipper.com