Keep Fit
With winter days being short and dark, it can be hard to
motivate yourself into getting outside and staying active
during this chilly season.
By making the
effort to stay fit this winter you will keep your energy
levels up, ward off the winter blues, and take care of those
extra pounds gained during the holidays.
There is a
tendency to stay indoors where it is warm and dry, curl up
with a good book and a hot drink, and promise yourself that
you will get back into shape when spring returns.
Unfortunately, this behavior provides the perfect
prerequisite for musculoskeletal problems, even heart
attacks, as people try to get back in shape and do too much
too fast. There are a number of things to do in winter,
outdoors and in, which will prevent the hibernation instinct
from taking over.
Outdoors
Take
advantage of the winter wonderland and get walking. If you
enjoy walking, don’t let the snow and cold weather prevent
you from your regular walking routine. Simply adjust your
workout wear to reflect the weather change. Try bundling up
and changing your routine to include snowshoeing or
cross-country skiing. Both offer a more effective workout
than just walking in your boots.
Try downhill
skiing or snowboarding, but be sure to get adequate
instructions and equipment before hitting the slopes. Or get
the toboggan out and go sledding down the hill. Those
repeated treks up the hill will give your heart, lungs and
legs a workout. Building a snowman or having a snowball
fight will get your body going as well.
Go ahead and
take advantage of a beautiful northern Minnesota winter
adventure. But before you start, there are a few tips you
should consider.
- Dress
right. Layering is the key. The innermost layer should
draw
sweat away from your body. A second layer should provide
insulation. The outermost layer should be as windproof
and waterproof as possible.
- Wear mittens or gloves with the above layering. Wool
or polypropylene
socks will keep your feet warm and dry, and proper
fitting all-climate shoes will provide traction and
stability.
- You can lose up to 40% of your body heat if your head
is exposed to
the elements. Cover your head, ears and neck.
- Protect your eyes by wearing goggles or wraparound
sunglasses and
wear other protective gear when appropriate.
- Wear natural sunscreen and lip balm with sunscreen.
- Make a plan. Always let someone know where you are
going or better
yet, recruit a friend to join you.
- Warm up and stretch before you go.
- Watch the weather. Be aware of wind chill values and
approaching
storms.
- Drink plenty of water. You still can get dehydrated in
the winter.
- Know the signs of frostbite and hypothermia.
Indoors
If you don’t want to venture outdoors, there are a
variety of indoor activities you can enjoy this winter
as well.
- Home exercise equipment or home exercise videos are a
popular option for winter indoor activity.
- Take your family to open swimming or open gym at your
local school.
- Join Lake Therapies Wellness Center. For a small monthly
fee you can exercise at your convenience.
- Go on a Saturday afternoon shopping trip or take up
dancing.
What ever activity you choose, be it indoors or
out, stay active this winter. It will lift up your mood
and help you maintain bone strength, balance, and
general well being. |
