Whether indoors or outdoors, be as active as you can—and have fun!
Stay active and healthy this winter season with these tips on the benefits of regular physical activity. From improved sleep and reduced anxiety to lower risk of chronic diseases, exercise has numerous mental and physical health benefits. Don’t let the colder weather hold you back from reaching your fitness goals and reaping the rewards of a physically active lifestyle.
Experts recommend adults get at least 150 minutes a week of moderate intensity physical activity. Many activities count, such as walking, running, or wheelchair rolling. You can break that up into smaller chunks of time or spread your activity out during the week. Try 30 minutes a day, 5 days a week. It all counts. Get started today with our 6 tips to stay active all winter long.
Winter sports are a great way to stay active during the colder months. Some popular options include sledding, snowshoeing, and skiing. These activities not only provide a fun way to enjoy the winter weather, but they also offer a great cardiovascular workout that can help you stay fit and healthy. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced athlete, there are winter sports activities that can be enjoyed by people of all skill levels.
Make an effort to go on nature walks, especially on days when the weather is nice. You can explore a nearby park or take a walk around your neighborhood to enjoy the beauty of the outdoors. Just be sure to choose a safe route. There are a lot of amazing hiking trails. As long as you have your warm winter gear, and have checked ahead of time to make sure your trail of choice doesn’t close in the winter, you should be all set to hike in the snow!
Stay informed about the weather by regularly checking forecasts so you can plan your week accordingly. This will allow you to dress appropriately and choose activities that are suitable for the conditions. By being proactive and planning ahead, you can make the most of your winter experiences.
To regulate your body temperature effectively, try dressing in layers during the winter. This way, you can easily add or remove clothing as needed to avoid getting too hot or too cold. Wearing layers will also help you stay comfortable and prevent sweating, which can lead to feeling chilled later on.
If you’re looking to stay active during the winter, consider finding workouts to do online. There are plenty of options available, such as live Zoom or Instagram classes, as well as videos on YouTube or other websites that can help you get in some cardio, stretching, and strength training. Some of these resources may be free or offered at a low cost, so you can easily find a workout that fits your budget.
If you’re stuck indoors due to bad weather, you can still find ways to be active. Consider doing some housework, such as sweeping, vacuuming, and cleaning, which can all help you get in some physical activity. You can also try taking the stairs or going for a walk around your home to get your heart rate up. Not only will these activities help you stay fit, but they will also allow you to check off some tasks on your to-do list.
Find ways to volunteer and give back to your community while also getting some physical activity. There are many options available, such as walking dogs for elderly neighbors or shoveling snow for those in need. Just be sure to follow social distancing guidelines to protect yourself and others while volunteering.
