Tips for Staying Active in the Cold!
When there is snow outside and it’s a brisk 30-something degrees outside, it is easy for most of us (especially here in New England!) to want to hunker down and cozy up on the couch with a blanket and a cup of tea– And there is nothing wrong with that! Winter isn’t always the most inviting time to be outside, especially if you are not a person who prefers the cold weather. But, while there are some people who enjoy outdoor winter activities, it is still important for all of us to remember to move our bodies and get that important exercise in during the colder months.
There are many factors that play into a sedentary winter. Here in New England, it is typical of most people to stay inside for the majority of the day to avoid the harsh and cold weather conditions. During the fall and winter months, our bodies are also usually craving heavier “comfort” style foods. It is natural to want to fill up on warm, heavier foods because it makes our bodies feel warm and cozy on the inside. This is similar to how we typically crave “lighter” style foods in the summer, such as lean meats, fresh veggies, fruits, and salads. While this is all normal, it further supports the importance of making sure we are getting that outdoor time and exercise in. We usually do not get much natural vitamin D from the sunlight during this time, so the more fresh air and movement we get each day, the better. Keep following along for some ways to stay active during these cold months so that you can be happy, healthy, and energized when Springtime rolls around!
Try Skiing and/or Snowboarding!
If you enjoy winter sports and you know how to ski and/or snowboard, then grab those skis or that board and hit the slopes! There is nothing more energizing and rewarding than finishing a run on a mountain and feeling that fresh, cold air in your face and smelling the fresh trees as you ski or board down that trail. It is always a rewarding feeling to take off your boots at the end of a few hours of skiing or boarding and drinking a warm cup of hot chocolate. You feel exercised, energized, and relaxed, all at the same time! And, if you don’t know how to ski or snowboard but are curious and want to try, there are always lessons available at almost any mountain. Don’t be afraid to start small, and work your way up! Trying new things and conquering new fears or goals is always a great feeling, so even if you just try it will be worth it- and will give you some great exercise and a dose of healthy fresh air!
Go For A Brisk Walk Or A Jog!
You don’t always have to be into hardcore winter sports to get exercise in the colder months. Sometimes just getting out of the house and going for a quick jog or a brisk, scenic walk is just as rewarding! It is a great way to get a change of scenery and some fresh air especially if you’ve been cooped up in the house for hours at a time. It will leave you feeling refreshed and revived once you get back to the house, and your body will thank you for taking some time out of your day to get up and move around!
Try Ice Skating!
Ice Skating is another great way to get your body moving and get some fresh air outside (or inside, if you choose!). Skating at an indoor or outdoor rink, or a natural pond, is a great way to get yourself moving without too much effort. It is a fun activity to enjoy with friends or family, and a great way to get a change of scenery in the meantime. Even just getting on the ice for 20 minutes will give you more exercise than you realize, as ice skating takes a lot of upper body and core strength to help you stay up on those skates! And the best part is that you don’t have to be an Olympic-level figure skater to enjoy the activity- just get out there and have fun, enjoy yourself, and don’t forget to laugh if you take a spill on the ice! You will feel relaxed and refreshed after while you’re enjoying that after-skate cup of hot cocoa.
Enjoy An Online Workout Class
If you find that you get your best exercise through an indoor workout class, then go for it! While this can also include going to the gym and working out on your own terms, you can also reap the benefits of indoor workouts from the comfort of your own home if that is where you feel most comfortable. It is also completely free if you choose! There are plenty of great online workout sessions available on YouTube and other places online, so you don’t have to spend even a dollar to get in a great workout session. Sometimes all you need is a yoga mat, a few hand-held weights, and a great YouTube fitness guru, and you’re all set to go! Online workout classes also save you the time and energy of having to get in your car and drive all the way to the gym, which is always a plus in the event of an inevitable New England winter snowstorm!
There are many different ways that you can still get your body moving, even during these long, cold winter months! It is important to do what feels comfortable for you, and that you have fun while doing it. So, get your body moving and get those endorphins flowing, and we promise it will help you to feel more energized and clear-headed as you get through the next few months. And, as always, if you are having trouble getting up and moving during these months due to pain of any kind, don’t hesitate to reach out to us here or by giving us a call at 401.602.7006! We look forward to hearing from you so that we can get you feeling your best in the upcoming months. See you soon!