Staying Active in Cold Weather Seasons

For the folks who reside in northern regions (or high elevations), winter can present a challenging environment. When the snow piles up outside it is tempting to hide indoors and become sedentary. While this response is comforting, it does nothing to further one's fitness level. Here are some tips to keep you active and fit while living in cold climes.

Clear out a wide indoor space to convert into your personal fitness center. Your garage or basement could be a great place to make some room. Pick up any clutter, tools or whatever might be strewn about and pack them up on a shelf or against the wall. Move furniture if you need to. Make your work-out space at least 10X10 square feet of empty floor. Put a mirror in the area to watch yourself and keep proper form while doing your fitness moves. Have a television or radio on to make exercise less tedious and boring.

Incorporate exercise into other activities. If you typically play cards during winter months, make a challenge that the loser must do 20 pushups. For billiards, agree with your opponent that the loser must do 25 squats, or a hundred jumping jacks. If you are playing video games on a Nintendo Wii or Sony Playstation, find ways to make physical exercise a part of this activity. Any game that involves competition can be creatively added to with physical fitness. It just takes a willing partner who is a good sport.

Engage in outdoor winter sports. Get some good cold weather gear, and go sledding. Or snowmobiling, or skiing. If you have children, go out and build a snowman with them. The key to this strategy is to dress in layers, and embrace your inner child. Playing in the fresh, crisp winter air is a great way to keep fit while having fun. Just make sure you stay safe. Protect extremities like fingers and toes, which can be susceptible to frostbite. Keep your nose and ears covered. Stay dry, and take frequent breaks to go inside and warm up if needed. Hot drinks like tea or cocoa will taste especially delicious after a rousing winter romp outdoors!

Make your body a power source of industrial energy. There is always some outdoors task to do in the winter, such as moving snow and leafy debris to clear your driveway and walkways. Instead of using a snow blower or a plow welded on the front of a truck, get out there and shovel using good old elbow grease! Pay attention to form and pace yourself if you use this tip. Wear shoes or boots with good rubber tread to avoid slipping and falling. Scatter salt to melt ice before you walk on it.

With some imagination and perseverance, you can keep up your fitness regimen during the coldest winter and not miss a beat. Try to rev up your cardio and respiratory system and break a sweat at least once a day. Stay safe, and use these helpful tips to keep strong and healthy all winter long!