September 25, 2017
With fall upon us, and winter just around the corner, now’s the time to think about how you can remain active during the colder months. It’s much easier to get out and active during the summer, and with longer periods of daylight and warmer weather, physical activity can simply be more fun. Luckily, there are plenty of fun and easy ways to stay fit, healthy, and stay warm while exercising this winter. Plus, working out in colder temperatures can even have some advantages over summer workouts.
Advantages of Cold-Weather Workouts
Believe it or not, there are some positives to exercising while it’s colder out. The American Heart Association (AHA) lists several tips for staying fit during the winter as well as great activity ideas. Winter workouts offer the following advantages:
- Less heat and humidity, resulting in increased exercise tolerance
- Increased sun exposure, helping you reach adequate vitamin D intake- important during winter months
- Enhance immune system during cold and flu season
Clothing and Gear Choices
Being cold and wet while working out can ruin the experience before it even starts. Make sure you plan for the weather and dress accordingly. First, remember to choose workout clothes that help to wick away moisture from your body while you sweat; this will help keep you warm and dry by preventing sweat from freezing while you exercise outdoors. Next, dedicate some time to layering correctly. Effective layering allows you to add or remove gear depending on your heat level. For example, during a winter hike you’re likely to get hot and sweat as you ascend the trail, so you remove the warm jacket you’re wearing. Once reaching the top, you begin to cool down and your sweat may start to freeze causing you to get cold rapidly. Having layering pieces during wintertime workout is key to staying warm, dry, and happy.
Fun and Easy Wintertime Fitness Activities
Outdoor:
- Ice Skating
- Skiing/Snowboarding
- Running/Walking
- Sledding
- Fat-Tire Cycling
Indoor:
- Gym
- Yoga
- Pilates
- Swimming
- At-home circuits and body-weight workouts
Learn more on how to stay fit and healthy this winter by checking out American Heart Association.