Staying Active in the Winter Months
When temperatures drop in the winter, it is extremely easy to sleep instead of waking up to work out outside or even get to the gym. Sometimes, working out in colder weather is better than warmer weather; there is no humidity to deal with, exercise can even boosts your immune system, and you may even be able to work out longer since it is not as hot outside!
The American Heart Association recommends a minimum of 150 minutes of moderate physical activity, such as aerobics each week. It is important to stay motivated and keep your body hydrated whether you decide to do your workouts outside or workouts inside. Your body needs water to function properly and to keep its internal body temperature regulated. Keep drinking and stay hydrated even if you are not very thirsty! Water is not the only option, hot beverages count too! Fruits and vegetables such as broccoli, strawberries, watermelon and celery have a high water content and are a great water source as well.
Outdoor workouts during the winter include walking, jogging, running, raking leaves, ice skating, shoveling snow, sledding and skiing. Make sure to stay safe and warm during these workouts by wearing the appropriate clothing and lots of layers! If your body gets too cold you could get hypothermia. Hypothermia occurs when your body can’t produce enough energy to keep your internal body temperature warm enough, or when the body temperature has fallen below 95 degrees Fahrenheit. Symptoms include lack of coordination, confusion, delayed reactions, slurred speech, shivering and cold hands and feet.
Too cold to go outside? Try some indoor workouts! Indoor workouts can include, but are not limited to aerobics, cardio, active housework such as vacuuming and sweeping, stair climbing, indoor sports and yoga. Going to the gym in the winter is always a great option as well.
Stay warm and keep motivated!
Outdoor Workouts:
- Ice Skating
- Ice Hockey
- Walking your dog
- Skiing
- Running outdoors
Indoor Workouts
- Indoor Swimming
- Walking in the mall
- Fitness class
- Take the stairs
- Pushups, Sit ups, Crunches, Lunges
- Workout videos
- Basketball
- Join a gym and use machinery
- Kickboxing