By Betty Murray
The more the temperatures drop, many people enjoy spending more time outside, while others tend to retreat indoors. If you’re a warm weather fan, it can be less motivating to get in an outdoor workout, but the cold weather shouldn’t keep you from staying fit in the fall and winter.
Here are a few tips for safe exercising in the cooler temperatures this fall and winter.
• Take your workout inside. Go to the mall for a walk and use a pedometer to keep track of your steps. Head to the gym or your local rec center and join an exercise class. Pop in a workout DVD or find a workout guide you can follow at home. The opportunities to exercise indoors really are endless.
• Dress in layers. Wearing layers allows you to stay warm until your body temperature rises enough that you can comfortably remove your outer layers. As your workout comes to an end and you begin to cool down, simply put the outer layers back on. Wear moisture-wicking clothing to keep moisture from sweat away from your skin. Cotton, for example, keeps moisture in, which can keep you from staying warm.
• Give cold-weather outdoor sports a try. Though Texas won’t have much in the way of snow for skiing, if you’re traveling to cooler climates, make a point to get out and take advantage of winter sports, such as snow skiing, snowboarding, and ice skating.
• Don’t workout alone. No matter the time of day, it is always safest (not to mention it can also be more fun) to workout in a group or with a workout partner. Consider joining a workout club our group, such as a bootcamp-style workout group; or running, cycling, or rowing club. By joining an exercise group, camp, or club, you will likely be working out with a certified trainer or coach, who can help you get the most out of your workout routine. If working out in a group isn’t your thing, find a friend to be your workout buddy, especially if you’re planning to exercise before the sun rises or in the evening. Workout out with others is also a great way to keep you motivated and on track.
• Stay hydrated. Even though it’s cooler outside, it is still important to stay hydrated. Drink plenty of water throughout the day to keep your hydration levels up, and be sure to drink water before, during, and after your workout.
Take advantage of the fall weather before winter hits and exercising outdoors is even more of a challenge. Even if you’re just raking leaves in your yard, find ways to get a little exercise in every day.
Betty Murray, CN, HHC, RYT is a Certified Nutritionist & Holistic Health Counselor, founder of the Dallas-based integrative medical center, Wellness and founder of the Metabolic Blueprint wellness program. Betty’s nutrition counseling practice specializes in metabolic and digestive disorders and weight loss resistance. A master of the biochemistry of the body, Betty teaches her clients how to utilize nutritional interventions to improve their health. Betty is a member of the Institute of Functional Medicine and the National Association of Nutrition Professionals.
