Don't leave your exercise regimen out in the cold
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Don't wait until the weather warms up to start getting in better shape. Begin incorporating exercise into your daily routine now with these ideas from the Backus Rehabilitation Department.
Physical Therapist Geoff Fabry, outpatient supervisor for Backus Hospital's Rehabilitation Department, said to prepare for longer spring activities, such as yard work, it is good to slowly increase your exercise time by a few minutes each week. He said it also is important to start or maintain flexibility with a stretching program throughout the winter to prevent injuries in the spring, when one becomes more active.
Indoor exercise
When it is cold and windy, you can swim at an indoor pool or walk at the mall. Some malls even open early just for walkers.
If you aren't a member of a gym, you can exercise at home by climbing the stairs a few extra times, purchasing some weights for light weightlifting, or using aerobic or yoga exercise programs on television.
If you own a treadmill or exercise bike, stop using it to dry your laundry and start exercising at least a few times a week to increase your fitness.
Outdoor exercise
If you enjoy the outdoors, there are plenty of winter sports that offer aerobic exercise.
Get together with some friends and go downhill or cross-country skiing or snowboarding.
Snowshoeing or hiking also is a great way to enjoy the outdoors while getting exercise. Be sure to stay hydrated, because although you may feel like you're not sweating, you can lose significant amounts of fluid from your body during winter exercise, Mr. Fabry said.
"Staying hydrated is very important to regulate body temperature and prevent frostbite," he said.
Also wear proper clothing, with layers. He recommends wearing clothes that wick away moisture for the first layer, covered by an insulating layer, topped off by a waterproof, breathable jacket.
Since there is less light in the wintertime, wear reflective clothing or carry a flashlight. When participating in winter sports, wear proper safety equipment, such as a helmet or goggles, and be fitted by a professional.
As always, obtain approval from your doctor for any exercise program if you have medical issues, especially if you will be exercising outdoors in the winter months.