Staying active is a great way to maintain your health year-round, and the mental-health benefits of working out can even help you to keep the winter blues away, but getting out and moving when the temperatures are freezing cold is harder than it sounds. To help keep you at your healthiest through the winter, Williamson Health and Wellness Active Living Director Alexis Batausa shared some tips.
If you’re wanting to continue your running or walking schedule through the winter, that’s fine, so long as you remember to dress appropriately. “Use a light jacket, especially when windy,” Alexis says. “Use your zipper to pull up or down to help adjust your body temperatures.” He also recommends remembering to wear gloves.
Even though it’s important to keep warm, remember that if you’re working out, your temperature is going to rise, so don’t overdress.
If it’s hard for you to stay motivated, sign up for a local 5K or mile walk to keep you “engaged and motivated,” Alexis suggests. Alexis also serves as the Tug Valley Road Runners Club President and he recommends participating in TVRRC events.
If you just can’t get outside when the temperatures fall, you can always head inside. “If you’re not a fan of going outside, then sign up at your local gym or join a fitness group such as yoga, Zumba, CrossFit, cycling, swimming, or anything to keep you motivated,” Alexis says.
Even though it can be a bit of adjustment to stay active during the coldest time of year, it’s worth it to keep your physical and mental health in tip-top shape!