Secrets to Exercising In The Winter

Discover these secrets to keeping physically active during these cold winter months without getting frostbite!

Oh! You wake up in the morning, knowing you need to get outside to do your daily walk or jog. But isn't that bed warm and comfortable? Just the thought of going outside (let alone getting out of bed) fills you with fear.

Of course, you know deep in your heart your exercise routine can't come to a standstill because of the weather. And the truth is it doesn't have to. You can still brave the cold outdoors and keep yourself fit and healthy if you know the secrets to exercising in cold weather.

Winter Outdoor Exercise Secret #1: Dress properly.

I'm sure your mother used to tell you this when you were younger and wanted to go sledding or build that snowman. And she was right.

Wear layers. You know when you step out that door you're going to feel that blast of cold. But you're also well aware as you get moving you warm up. When you wear layers you can easily peel off the top layer as your body warms.

Start off with a breathable wicking material closest to your skin. Don't use sweat-absorbing cotton. Save the cotton for the second layer. Or your second layer could be made of fleece. Both of these keep you warm. Finally, put a wind breaker or some type of waterproof outer layer on you. Now you're ready!

Winter Outdoor Exercise Secret #2: Don't forget your extremities.

Oh, you know what we mean by extremities. Yes, your feet, but also your hands. In fact, the areas of your body most prone to frost bite are your fingers, toes and your face. Yes, your face.

How do you know when enough is enough? If your feel pain or tingling in your fingers, toes or ears, then its time to come in.

Winter Outdoor Exercise Secret #3: Wear a hat.

Again, your mother was right. And it really is true that you lose substantial body heat through your head. So just resign yourself to wearing the hat. You may not look fashionable, but you'll be warm and safe.

Winter Exercise Secret #4: Don't neglect those warm up exercises.

Winter is no season to forget performing your warm up exercises before you go out for your exercise routine. In fact, it's more important than ever in cold weather.

Before you leave the house perform some stretching and other exercises to limber up. And once you're outside, start out slowly. If you're a jogger, then walk briskly before entering your full jog.

Winter Outdoor Exercise Secret #4: Take advantage of the season.

That's right! Why not break from your usual routine (or even add to it!) by building a snowman, getting into an old fashioned snowball fight or building a snow fort. If you're really ambitious, why not try cross-country skiing? Then again, when was the last time you ice skated?

The winter season offers more than just that feeling of dread of leaving your bed in the morning. It's one of the best times of the year to change and add to your daily exercise routine! Why not take full advantage of it? Your body will thank you.

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