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Exercising through the winter |
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During the long winter months, the thought of getting up and out into the elements can be extremely daunting not to mention unappealing. The fact is however, that getting exercise during the generally darker winter months can be important for a number of reasons. Not only is it essential in maintaining our physical health and not losing any of the gains we’ve made through the summer, sticking to an exercise program in the winter can also help ward off the winter ‘blues’ which in extreme cases can even lead to seasonal depression known as SAD.
 Becoming motivated to exercise in the winter is a challenge, but there are a number of ways to deal with this. One of the easiest is to use the ‘buddy system’. Studies have shown time and time again that finding a partner with whom to exercise encourages an individual to not only exercise more regularly but stick with a program for longer. The added benefit of having a friend to exercise with in the winter if going outdoors, is that it adds to the safety factor especially if it is dark outside. In addition to this, whether with a friend or alone, the exerciser should always wear reflective clothing that allows them to be seen clearly and always stay in areas that are well lit.
On the subject of clothing, what is worn when exercising in the cold must be given greater thought than in the summer, when pretty much anything goes. The combination of a hot, sweaty body coming into contact with the frigid elements is not healthy, so it is worth investing in proper clothing that is designed to take moisture way from body, while providing waterproofing and wind resistance. Dressing in layers is always advised to allow warm air to circulate, and, if out in extreme cold temperatures, all exposed skin should be adequately covered.
If all these precautions don’t sound like much fun, consider exercising indoors, whether at the gym or at home. A wide range of quality exercise equipment is available to the consumer these days, allowing them to have a good, basic home gym which covers all their exercise needs. While top of the line treadmills and elliptical machines are great, a good workout can still be had with just a few simple pieces, such as an exercise ball, jump rope and set of dumbbells. Buying or renting some exercise DVD’s is a great idea, particularly for those who like the motivating aspect of being led through an exercise routine. If the idea of exercising at home doesn’t appeal, joining the gym is not the only alternative. There are plenty of indoor activities, from team sports to dance lessons to artificial rock climbing clubs that all give the body a good workout without having to step into the cold.
Of course the best option for exercising in the cold is to simply embrace the weather and take advantage of the many winter sports such as snowboarding, skiing, ice hockey and skating to name a few. Going out in the snow with kids is a great motivator, and activities such as sledding or snow-shoeing will keep the whole family fit, boost their immunity and may even improve relationships.
Whichever way you decide to keep healthy and fit during the winter, it is worth remembering that the benefits will be tenfold. The body will be able to ward off winter bugs more easily, those holiday indulgences won’t put so much of a dent in the diet plan, and maybe best of all, you won’t have so much hard work to do to get your body back into bikini shape come summer! |
