HOW TO STAY ACTIVE IN THE WINTER

When the temperature drops, your fitness journey does not have to come to a halt. Explore the great outdoors and discover how to stay active throughout the winter.

Outdoor winter activities are an excellent way to beat the winter blues, stay fit, and boost your immunity during flu and cold season. Winter activities allow you to exercise in ways you wouldn’t normally be able to during other seasons of the year. Getting out and about in the winter is always a good idea, whether it’s sledding with friends, hiking a snowy trail for peace of mind, or doing yard work.

 

TWO OUTDOOR WINTER ACTIVITIES TO TRY

One of the best ways to improve your mental and physical health in the winter is to stay active. Daily workouts help you de-stress and increase your endorphin levels, which make you feel better. The great thing about winter activities is that they come in a wide variety. You get to choose which ones are most comfortable for your body. Here are different winter activities to try to stay active this season.

1. HIKING OR SNOWSHOEING

Hiking is a great way to stay fit and can be done throughout the year if you have the right gear and the weather is fair. Depending on the trail you take, they can also be very peaceful. Put on your snowshoes to amp up the intensity of this workout. Snowshoeing is a low-impact, endurance-building workout that can be done anywhere there is snow.

 

2. RUNNING

Running is a great way to get outside, get some sun, and get moving in the winter. Running, like hiking, can be done in any season and may even feel better in the winter due to the lack of extreme heat and humidity. When running in the winter, it is crucial to wear running shoes with excellent support and traction. When going for a run, keep an eye out for snow and ice.

 

TWO INDOOR WINTER ACTIVITIES TO TRY

 

1. 15 MINUTE HEAVY BAG WORKOUT

Increase your cardio, strength, and muscle. The heavy bag is an essential tool for any fighter, but it can also be a great workout for anyone who wants to enhance their workout routine. All you need is a bag, hand wraps, and some mitts. When used correctly, the heavy bag is an excellent way to increase cardio while also increasing strength and muscle. To get started, a fantastic heavy bag workout that anyone can do on their own can consist of 3-minute rounds on the heavy bag, to be completed for a total of 4 rounds. Rest between 1-2 minutes between rounds and drink water as needed. Remember when doing a shorter workout such as this, it’s all about the push. Make sure you are using proper technique, but don’t forget to push your pace and get your heart pumping.

 

2. CALISTHENICS

The military has used calisthenics (or bodyweight exercises) for years to build up strong soldiers. You can do calisthenics in your house easily without purchasing any special equipment. Not only will you build great functional strength, making everyday tasks easier, but by reducing stress on your joints while building that strength, results in a longer lifespan for those joints. Calisthenics increase your resting metabolic rate, as well as enhance and develop muscular and aerobic endurance. Just perform three or four of these exercises for 15-20 minutes for a duration of three or four times a week to grow stronger all winter long:

• Push-ups
• Crunches
• Leg lifts
• Planks
• Squats
• Lunges
• Chair dips
• Calf raises

 

DRESS THE PART

When participating in outdoor winter activities, layers are your best friend. Cold temperatures steal your body heat, which makes layering essential when exercising in the cold. Moisture-wicking material should be used in the first layer, which is closest to your skin. The insulating layer made of wool or polyester fleece in the second layer. The third layer should be lightweight and waterproof. Whether you’re hiking, running, or doing yard work, your shoes should have good traction, fit snugly, and be insulated and waterproof.

 

WINTER FUN AND FITNESS

Learning how to stay active in the winter is an excellent way to demonstrate your love and care for your body and mind. It is critical to take care of your body by staying fit and healthy throughout the year. When getting out and about in the winter, use caution. If the temperatures are dangerously low or there is a heavy snowstorm, it is best to stay indoors. This is where you can use our tips for safely staying active indoors. However, if the sun is shining, the temperatures are safe, and the snow isn’t too deep, zip up your coat, put on gloves and proper footwear, and go outside.