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For some folks, winter is a thrilling opportunity to hit the slopes. For the rest of us, however, it’s the time of year when staying indoors with a mug of hot cocoa sounds a lot more appealing.
2020 has already done more than enough to shake up our fitness routines. With gyms a no-go and the cold weather setting in, what can we do to exercise? Turns out, plenty!
The obvious solution is to exercise indoors. Thanks to the magic of the internet, you can find literally any type of exercise video online, often for free. Everything from yoga to line dancing is available with a click of a button.
If you’re missing the weight machines at your gym, never fear. Simple body weight exercises can replicate the majority of those movements. Squats, lunges, push-ups, and planks are all fantastic ways to work your muscles without specialized equipment. Best of all, they can be modified to suit your level of fitness. It’s not a bad idea to pick up a set of hand weights if you want to add an extra level of challenge.
December 21st is the shortest day of the year (AKA the winter solstice). The amount of sunlight you’ll get each day depends on your latitude; in New York City, for example, the solstice will bring just over nine hours of daylight. On the summer solstice, the city gets more than 15 hours of daylight!
What does that mean for you? Plan any outdoor exercise with an eye toward sunrise and sunset times in your area. While you could go for a jog before sunrise or after sunset, it’s going to be much colder. Make sure to have a light source and some kind of reflective material on your jacket in case you end up outside before dawn or after dusk.
We covered this idea last week, but dressing in thinner layers is the best way to stay warm in winter. If you’re allergic to the cold, then making sure that you’re properly insulated is essential. Going for a walk with freezing hands and a runny nose from the chilly air is no fun.
Your base layer should fit close to the skin and wick moisture. Cotton isn’t the greatest choice here because it can actually retain moisture and make you feel cold and clammy. Your middle layer could be a lightweight sweater or fleece. If temperatures are still too cold for comfort, add a puffy jacket that won’t add too much weight while providing additional warmth.
Wear warm socks that are designed to wick moisture, and make sure that your shoes can withstand the winter weather. Don’t forget gloves, a scarf, and a hat or ear warmers, too!
