Summer brings the heat, which means spending plenty of time outdoors. But eventually, winter brings more adverse weather, like the cold temperatures, rain, snow, and even hail. I don’t care who you are, nobody enjoys walking around in a pair of wet socks. So the big question is:
“How do I keep active (and motivated to be active) during the winter?”
There are many guides out there that will offer tips such as, “Take the stairs rather than the elevator.” While this is beneficial, and some exercise is better than none, there are much more effective and fun ways to stay active in the wintertime. Staying active doesn’t have to be a struggle. All it really takes is a couple of key elements: be prepared, and make it fun.
Layer Up!
The winter can bring some nasty weather, but luckily nowadays that doesn’t mean we have to wait it out inside.
Layering your clothes is the best way to keep you warm and dry while exercising outside in the winter. The bottom-most layer should be a lightweight synthetic material (such as polyester or nylon) to wick the moisture away from your skin. If the bottom layer is made of absorbent material such as cotton it will trap the moisture and can cause hypothermia.
The second layer should be an insulator such as fleece, to keep the body heat in.
Finally, your last layer needs to be something wind resistant as well as water repellant – this is to keep the nasty elements outside of your body, keeping you safe and warm.
In addition to all these layers be sure to wear a hat/toque, some gloves, and a good pair of socks (maybe even bring some spares) to keep the extremities warm as well!
Try Something New!
Even though winter means fewer outdoor sports like baseball and field hockey, it brings on new and fun options!
There are plenty of winter runs going on like the Phantom Run and the Santa Shuffle. Sign up, find a friend and get them out there to train with you in preparation.
If running doesn’t offer enough scenery for you, try a hike! Vancouver has plenty of fun hikes to offer such as Burnaby Mountain or Lynn Canyon.
If hiking isn’t exactly your thing try something new: head up to the mountain, rent yourself a snowboard or pair of skis and give it a shot!
Find something fun that you enjoy doing and there is no doubt that you will continue doing it.
The Winter months come with adverse conditions, making everything dark and cold. However, with a little bit of effort and good planning, you can still enjoy the same amount of (or even more!) outdoor exercise as you did just a few months ago in the summer. So get out there and have some fun!
—
Shane Lanouette – ACE Certified Personal Trainer
Professional Training Coach
Innovative Fitness Vancouver
Four Seasons Hotel – Club 4
791 West Georgia Street
Work: 604-609-5450
Cell: 604-817-4232
