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Just because the weather outside is frightful doesn’t mean your fitness routine has to be. In fact, there are plenty of ways to stay active during winter, whether you enjoy the cold or not. Here are a few tips on how to stay active during winter!
Don't resign from outdoor activities
If you're like most people, you probably start to feel a little more sluggish and less motivated to be active once the weather starts to cool down and winter sets in. But that doesn't mean you have to resign yourself to a sedentary lifestyle until spring arrives. There are plenty of ways to stay active and enjoy the outdoors even when the temperature drops.
Walking is a great, simple activity you can do during any season. In winter you can go for a hike or walk in the woods or a park. The fresh air and exercise will do you good and you'll get to enjoy the beauty of nature, even if it's not in full bloom.
Stay warm, safe and hydrated
Winter weather can be a little more challenging to our organism. It's important to always stay safe while exercising. Here are a few tips:
1. Dress in layers: Wearing several layers of loose-fitting clothing will help you regulate your body temperature better than one thick layer. Choose fabrics that wick away moisture, like wool or synthetic materials.
2. Stay hydrated: It’s important to drink plenty of fluids when you’re active, even in cold weather. Drink before you feel thirsty and carry a water bottle with you if possible.
3. Watch for signs of hypothermia: Hypothermia is a serious danger in cold weather. Watch for signs like shivering, confusion, drowsiness and slurred speech, and get indoors or to a warm area immediately if you notice any of these.
4. Protect your skin: The cold weather can dry out your skin and make it more susceptible to injury. Wear gloves or mittens when outside, and use a moisturizer regularly. Be sure to also protect any exposed skin from the sun’s rays – even in winter!
5. Avoiding slips and falls: Ice and snow can make sidewalks and other surfaces slippery. Wear shoes with good traction and take your time when walking on potentially icy areas. If you do fall, try to relax and
But indoor activity can be fun too
But indoor activity can be fun too!
Just because the weather outside is cold and dreary, doesn’t mean you have to be cooped up inside all winter. There are plenty of ways to stay active indoors, so you can still enjoy yourself even when it’s not beach weather.
Here are some ideas for indoor activities that will keep you moving:
1. Go for a swim. Heading to the pool is a great way to get some exercise while staying warm. Swimming is a low-impact cardio workout that’s easy on your joints, so it’s ideal if you’re looking for a workout that won’t leave you feeling sore afterwards.
2. Take a dance class. If you love to move and groove, then sign up for a dance class! There are tons of different genres of dance to choose from, so you can find one that suits your taste. Whether you want to learn salsa or ballroom dancing, there’s sure to be a class that’s perfect for you.
3. Take a walk at an indoor location. Who said you can only walk outside?
If it’s too cold to walk around your neighborhood, then head to an indoor mall or shopping center instead. Walking is a great way to get some exercise, and you can even do some window shopping while you’re at it.
4. Do a home workout video. If you don’t have time to go to the gym, then working out at home is the next best thing. There are tons of different workout videos available online or on DVD, so you can find one that fits your fitness level and interests
Boost your immunity in the flu season
During winter, it’s a good idea to boost your immunity. Exercise might be one great way to do it, since it improves circulation and helps to lower inflammation. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days of the week to really experience its benefits.
Getting enough sleep is also essential for a strong immune system. Most adults need 7-8 hours of sleep per night. If you’re not getting enough sleep, try to establish a regular bedtime routine and stick to it as much as possible.
Sources:
- Sheikh, K.; Can Exercise Strengthen Your Immunity?; New York Times; 2022
