27 Nov Winter Weather Got You Down? We Have Some Tips for Staying Fit This Year…
Thanksgiving marks the beginning of the holiday season and for many, the beginning of cold weather, too. While you certainly could (and plenty of people do) use the inclement weather as an excuse to hibernate inside, there’s no reason to let winter stand in the way of staying fit. We offer some tips for how to beat the winter weather and keep your health and fitness goals on track.
If You Can’t Beat It, Join It (the Weather that is)…
There’s a saying that there’s no such thing as bad weather, only bad gear (clothes). This is partially true! If you go outside wearing the wrong thing, you’ll regret it before long. On the other hand, if you dress for the weather, you can really make the most out of the season. Dress in layers, avoid cotton, choose moisture-wicking fabrics, and don’t neglect your extremities. Depending on the temperatures, you may want a scarf or mask over your mouth/nose to help you breathe more comfortably.
The good news is, you may be able to exercise longer and get “more bang for your buck” so to speak. Without the heat and humidity of summer that can make so many outdoor activities punishing and unbearable, cold weather actually offers a chance to exercise or train longer or more intensely. Hike, walk, run, ice skate, ski, or even use clear days to clean up your yard. Don’t neglect your fuel and hydration; without oppressive heat it’s easy to forget to grab some water, but you can become dehydrated in cooler weather, too!
It’s good to get outside! While you can invest in a lamp to chase away winter blues, getting outside for even a short amount of time every day gives you valuable vitamin D and can boost your mood. So even if you just take a quick stroll on your lunch break, go ahead – grab a coat and get moving.
Make the Indoors Your Playground
If you can’t brave the cold or you’re fighting feet of snow at the front door, don’t give up on your active lifestyle. You can get active with just your body and basic movement! Try a quick home workout, look up some videos online, try a workout DVD set, jump rope, or even invest in some free weights or a treadmill if you really want some options. Thousands of people have activity trackers; if you’re one of them, you can track your steps and set daily goals for yourself – even your holiday shopping can be a workout if you walk enough and keep moving. You can also try your local gym or YMCA; plan a day to meet a friend so you’re more likely to stick with it. Get energized by signing up for a new class or take one you’ve enjoyed before. If your facility offers an indoor pool, you can enjoy the benefits of aquatic activities even when winter is at its worst! Studies have shown that swimming has added benefits for mental health/mood and there’s no better time to boost your mood than in the short, often cloudy days of a cold winter.
There’s no reason this winter season to give up on your plans for a healthier lifestyle: make staying active indoors or outdoors part of your cold weather plans! If you can’t get (or stay) active because of pain, accident, or injury, Body One Physical Therapy can help. Body One is locally-owned with four locations serving Central Indiana: North Indianapolis, South Indianapolis, Fishers, and Zionsville. Our team of compassionate, highly-trained, and specialized physical therapists works with clients of all ages and activity levels. One of our physical therapists will meet with you, assess your health issues and develop a detailed, custom treatment plan designed to get you moving on the road to better health! Don’t accept a painful, sedentary lifestyle: call Body One today!
