Sunday, January 23, 2011

Keeping Active During the Winter


Winter months can be quite challenging for many of us. It's cold! It's dark! Many of us just want to hybernate. Exercising can become even more of a challenge especially if we live in cold climates. But there are great ways to stay active both indoors and out with winter activities.

When exercising outdoors it's important to remember these essential things.

1) Dress in layers. It is better to use synthetic or wool materials as they keep moisture away from our skin and preventing the chills. Hats, gloves, even warm socks will make us more confortable. Stay convered up if there is a wind chill. Keep warm, that's the key.
2) Wear sensible shoes. In areas where there is snow or ice, be sure to wear shoes that are skid-proof. In rainy areas, shoes should be water-tight. Soggy shoes are no fun. Again, warm socks are essential to keeping your feet comfortable.
3)Warm up muscles. While indoor, light exercise to warm up those muscles will prevent pulls and other injuries and are more likely to occur in colder weather. This goes for any outdoor winter activities.
4) Drink plenty of fluids. Even thought you may not feel as thirsty, it's still important to drink fluids to keep your body properly hydrated. Daily supplements are important too.

And for those who just don't want to exercise outdoors, here are some great suggestions.

1) Join a gym. They are a great place to workout. The climate is always steady no matter what it's like outside. Swimming pools are great too.
2) If you can't get to a gym, make one in your own home. Balance balls, weights, jumprope, exercise videos are all great ways to keep in shape while working out indoors.
3) Stairs. If you have stairs in your home, great. If not, many malls and other public places have stairs and who knows, maybe you'll inspire someone else.
4) Cleaning your house. Why not get your spring cleaning done in the winter. This is the best time to re-arrange the house, get into all those nooks and crannies. You'd be surprised at how many calories you can burn by doing household chores.

So come on! Get off that couch! Get out of that bed and let's keep active throughtout the winter. Imagine how great you'll look in the spring.

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