Walk Off the Cold

I don't know about where you guys are living, but it's freezing here in Asheboro, NC! Of course, you probably won't think the same if you've been living in New York your entire life. Alas, no more gardening and sun-lit pool activities to keep you in shape, but that doesn't mean you have to hole yourself up by the fire all winter. Although it won't hurt for just one night. But lay off that hot chocolate! Or don't. But don't you add those marshmallows! Well, I guess a few won't hurt.

The cold can be a problem for some and blessing for others. If you are extremely sensitive to cold, you can compensate by layering up, or by trying more indoor physical activities. There is something exhilarating about that tightness you get in your lungs after breathing that clean, cold air up though, and you'd be missing out on some fantastic scenery if you stay indoors.

Indoor Activities

-Cleaning is a great way to get in some light exercise, and you accomplish your daily chores as well! Loading the dishwasher and putting up the dishes can really give your back and arms a work out. Clean out your refrigerator. Fold the laundry. You know this stuff.

-Dancing is great fun, and can really burn some calories if you keep at it. The most important step here is preparing your playlist. Choose songs that keep you really pumped up. I enjoy Shakira personally. You can also play some videos on YouTube that have some dance moves or really awesome dancing (Single Ladies by Beyonce).

-Yoga is a great way to get both physical and mental benefits. Feel the connection of your spirit and body, and their connection to everything in the universe from the trees and the sky to the energy of the room.

-Exercise Tapes

-FitTV

Outdoor Activities

The key here is preparation, people. And I don't just mean dressing appropriately. You should bring a cell phone with you, just in case something were to happen. Make sure you wear the right kind of shoes, especially if there's snow on the ground. Ice can be very slippery; in fact, if it is icy and slippery, you ought to just try one of the indoor activities unless you really can't stand being inside.

Keep in mind once you get your heart rate up, you will automatically start to get warmer and may even become uncomfortably hot if you dress in too many layers. Hats and gloves are great for keeping you warm, but not making you too hot like extra layers and very heavy coats.

Walking is great for fitness newbies. When you are walking, try to keep your pace brisk enough so that your heart rate is slightly elevated. Also work on holding yourself in the correct posture and your balance when walking. If you pay close attention to your body, you will notice certain things about the way you walk that can be corrected. For example, I've noticed that my knees tend to bend too far inward when I walk, and I try to prevent that now. Walk around your neighborhood, get to know the place. Talk to your neighbor. Invite them to take a walk with you. Talk about what you're going to do for the holidays and how frakin' cold it is outside. Just get out there and soak up the cold! If you plan on writing for Associated Content when you come back in, make sure you wear gloves or your fingers will be too frozen to type properly.

Walking the dog is probably more challenging than just walking by yourself, unless you have a really awesome dog. Most dogs are trying to drag you down the street to chase after a bunny or small child or other equally innocent thing, and it's your job to keep them from their objective. Well, easier said than done. Certain tools like special collars and doggie backpacks can help with this. Walking your dog around the park is a great idea if he is a sociable animal, but if he is not, be sure to avoid people and other animals.

Other Options

The gym. That's right, the gym. It's not that far of a drive(hopefully). I know the heat takes forever to work in your car, but it'll be worth after you come out feeling like a million bucks! And it'll definitely be working when you start seeing the muscle definition. Make regular appointments for yourself to go the gym and STICK TO THEM, just like they were a commitment you made elsewhere in your life. There is nothing more important than your health and well-being, and it's worth every penny and sweat drop of effort you put into it!

Photo Source: http://www.sxc.hu/photo/1225578, http://www.sxc.hu/profile/Malta333; Thank you Malta333 for a beautiful photo to use in this article.