It’s getting cold outside, and that may be the perfect excuse to stay indoors this winter. As good as it sounds to stay inside, it is important to stay active to help maintain your weight.
For health benefits, aim for at least 150 minutes (2.5 hours) of moderate intensity physical activity weekly, such as walking, jogging or bicycling. Don’t forget muscle-strengthening exercises like lifting weights or using resistance bands at least two times per week.
Make it a goal to be active at least 30 minutes every day. Don’t have enough time? Try 10-minute intervals throughout the day. Some exercise is better than none, and it does not have to be strenuous to be beneficial. The holidays are a busy time, so regular exercise may become a last priority. Schedule time to be active every day, even if it is only for a few minutes.
Staying active can help you maintain your weight, relieve stress, boost self-esteem and lower your risk of hypertension, stroke or type 2 diabetes.
15 Ways to Exercise During Winter:
- Shovel snow (but don’t overdo it!).
- Wake up early for a morning workout.
- Play outside! Try cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, sledding, ice skating or building a snowman.
- Try an exercise DVD at home or online exercise routines.
- Bundle up and take a walk outside.
- Try a month-to-month gym membership.
- Walk indoors at the mall while shopping.
- Do exercises while watching TV.
- Walk indoors on your lunch break.
- Find a workout buddy to keep you accountable.
- Use a pedometer to track your steps. Try increasing the number of steps you take each day.
- Take the stairs.
- Park farther away at your destination.
- If you sit at a desk, get up every hour and take a walk around the office.
- If you travel, bring portable exercise equipment with you.
Remember, talk to your health care provider before starting a new exercise routine.
