Come on in out of the cold: Bringing your exercise routine inside
For most people, the change of season brings changes in activity, lifestyle choices and how you decide to spend your time. In summer and the early days of fall, you likely were able to spend time outside playing golf, walking the dog, swimming and doing yard work. As winter rears its head, however, you may need to find a different approach to remain active, healthy and fit.
HERE ARE A FEW IDEAS TO HELP WITH THE TRANSITION:
- Continue to be outside when you can. In Iowa, fall and winter weather changes daily—sometimes even hourly. There will likely be many days you are still able to go outside and walk the dog, work in the yard or shovel the walks if your overall level of health allows. The crisp, fresh air of winter can be healthful and invigorating.
- Join a health club. This is probably one of the easier ways to transition to indoor activity. There are any number of clubs in many different price ranges. Tour some local facilities and find one that matches your needs and budget. Some even offer free trial visits to give you better insight into what each has to offer.
- Buy some equipment for your home. This can be as expensive or inexpensive as you choose and the options are many. Libraries are filled with exercise CDs you can rent, and video stores have a variety of them for purchase. You can also go to your local retailer and purchase a big exercise ball, some simple hand weights and exercise bands to help you piece together an effective workout. You may also, of course, consider purchasing an exercise bike or treadmill for your home, as long as it doesn’t end up being a glorified hanger for your clothes. Whatever you decide, consider placing it near a television so you can be active while you watch your favorite shows.
- Choose healthy fall and winter activities. Depending upon your overall health and your ability to participate, there are a number of fall/winter activities in which to participate. Try ice skating, roller skating, sledding or even indoor tennis or racquetball. These activities aren’t for everyone but, if you are able and willing, they can add some variety to your routine activity.
Staying as active as possible has many health benefits and can also improve your mood and overall sense of well-being. You may feel you don’t have the time or energy for exercise or activity but you can—you just need to schedule it in and make it a priority in your day.
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
Original article written by Lisa Jones, published in Health Matters October/November 2014.
