With the temperatures plummeting this time of year, many of us
tend to hibernate inside our homes. But, hibernating is for bears.
As humans it’s important to stay active through all four
seasons. Yet, a poll of 5,000 people found that 30 percent get
no exercise at all during the Winter months...
Just because it is cold outside doesn’t make it open season
for an excuse not to exercise. There are multiple exercise options
one can choose to participate in regardless of what the outdoor
thermometer reads. Depending on your location and likes, you can
choose to workout inside or outside.
All that is required for Winter-time workouts is some planning
and employing all safety precautions. If you prefer to workout
outside, keep the following tips in mind.
· Get warm first. A proper warm-up is critical. Cold temperatures
can make your muscles tight and therefore they are more prone
to injuries. So, it’s important to get them warmed-up prior
to engaging in intense physical activity.
· Insulate your body. The best approach to dressing for
outdoor exercise is with layers. Layering provides the most effective
heating method, plus it allows you to remove the top layer if
you get too hot. The layer closest to your skin should allow moisture
to be wicked away. The top layer should be both wind and water
resistant.
· No sweat. Don’t assume that you have to sweat in
order to get a good workout. You should avoid sweating that causes
the clothing layer closest to your skin to get wet and cause you
to be chilled. Instead monitor your intensity through a heart
rate monitor or the Rating of Perceived Exertion.
· Don’t strip when you get inside. While you may
be tempted to immediately remove your layers when returning inside,
give your body time to adjust. Post exercise hypothermia is possible.
This happens when your body rapidly loses its heating stores.
· Drink up. It’s just as important to stay hydrated
when exercising in Winter as it is in Summer, even though you
might not feel as thirsty.
· Lighten up. If possible, it’s best to exercise
outdoors during daylight areas. But, with shorten days that can
be difficult to do. If you exercise outdoors when it is dark,
wear reflective materials to ensure that you can be seen.
