Healthy Mood Lifestyle  Mood & Exercise  How To Be More Active Every Day

Is It Cold Outside? Keep Exercising With These Tips

The cold winter weather might make you feel like staying indoors, but there are many ways to continue your fitness program and not lose your commitment to your good health. And remember - exercise can help beat the winter blues, improve your mood, increase your energy level and help you sleep better. So, get outside - or inside - and exercise!

Tips for outdoor winter exercise:

• Exercise defensively. Beware of slippery surfaces. Exercise in daylight, if possible.
• Plan ahead and stay safe, especially at night. Let others know your route and when you will return.
• Dress appropriately. Wear layers and synthetic fabrics. Dress in brightly colored or reflective clothing so that drivers can see you. Choose footwear with enough traction to prevent falls on snow or ice.
• Use mittens or gloves to protect your hands.
• Wear a hat - up to 40 percent of your body's heat is lost through your head
• Walk into the wind. End your workout - when you are likely to be tiring - with the wind at your back.
• Drink fluids. Even in cold weather, you need to drink plenty of water to prevent dehydration.

Tips for indoor winter exercise:

• Go mall walking, which is a safe and pleasant way to meet like-minded exercisers.
• Join a health club or take fitness classes at your local school.
• Purchase exercise equipment for your home; and be sure to set the machine in front of a window to gain the benefit of exposure to natural sunlight.