WCHY
WMMM
WOLX
Balance Madison
health_04_617x130.jpg

Poll

Outdoor Winter Workouts

You don't have to stay cramped up inside to get your workout in this winter, you just need to take a couple precautions.


We all know it's important to stay active all year round, which can be a challenge with the dropping temperatures.  That doesn't mean you can't get outdoors, it just means you have to think a little bit about how to stay safe in the cold weather.  Follow these tips to stay active and healthy!


Warm up and cool down. Cold weather constricts muscles,so you need to allow enough time for proper stretching to warm up muscles before you exercise. Cooling down with stretches helps keep you limber and flexible. For best results, hold leg, arm and calf stretches for 30 seconds
each.


Wear proper-fitting shoes or boots
that prevent your feet from getting wet and cold.


Consume foods and beverages that will help fuel your body for cold weather activities, such as whole grain breads, nuts and sports drinks.


With the proper clothing, you can continue your summer activities such as running or walking during the winter.


Winter sports, such as cross-country skiing, snowshoeing and ice skating, are great aerobic activities that help tone the arms and legs for spring.


Shoveling snow can be great exercise.
Start slowly to build endurance and follow proper technique -- your feet and shoulders should face the shovel in order to avoid injuries to the back, neck and shoulders.


If you find it too outdoor exercise too tough in the winter, join a gym or head to a mall for a brisk walk.


Source: www.meriter.com/