5 Ways to Stay Active and Healthy This Winter
When the weather temperatures in Keokuk begin to drop down below 40 degrees, it becomes harder and harder to stay motivated to keep active; most find themselves burrowed under a cozy collection of blankets, or stocking up on delicious hot coffee at the local coffee shop.
While there is nothing wrong with getting cozy or drinking coffee, it’s also important to remember to stay active even in the winter months to stay healthy.
Overall health effects health insurance, and while you may not have control over the premiums you pay, you do have some control over how you take care of your body and you can avoid any health issues that being out of shape or inactive may cause.
Here are 5 tips to staying active in cold weather:
1. Get A Fitbit
Do you have a fitbit? Don’t forget to use it! Challenge to friends to “walk-a-thons” and see who can walk the most in a week or month. If possible, try to do your walking when it’s light out. Use your lunch break or do family activities when kids get out of school. If you do walk when it’s dark out, always walk with a partner.
2. Feel the Burn
Get some small hand weights or resistance bands to use at home for resistance exercise. You can do simple exercises while watching your favorite TV show or listening to your favorite podcast.
3. Walk it Off
If you are able, take the stairs and fit in walking breaks whenever you can. This will give you extra activity, even on a busy day.
4. Walk Your Dog (Or Pet)
Bundle up and take the dog for a walk! Not only is this good for your furry friend, but it’s good for you, too! This can help make walks part of your daily routine.
5. Join a gym or health club
You can use machines like treadmills, stair-climbers, or exercise bikes. Try a fitness class or a new indoor activity, like dancing or water aerobics.
Always check with your doctor before beginning a new activity if you have health issues or if you have not been active for an extended period of time.
And of course, if it is extremely cold outside, take the day off. Staying active in the winter doesn’t mean you have to be overly risky and if certainly doesn’t mean you can’t take a few days off.
How do you stay active and healthy in the cold winter months? Share your tips with us!
