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Sports
It can be hard not to lose your desire to exercise after winter weather sets in. It’s so much easier to stay inside where it’s warm than to bundle up and head outdoors for a cold, swift walk. Amidst the temptation to hibernate indoors, it’s important to maintain an active and healthy lifestyle year-round.
“You can still enjoy working out during chilly winter months,” said Shannon Handler, FNP-C Family Nurse Practitioner from Aspirus Health. “Just because the temperatures may have dropped and the snow is falling, staying active for your overall health is important.”
Winter Wonderland Workouts. The Upper Peninsula is a wonderful place to embrace the winter wonderland and enjoy the unique area. Whether it’s skiing, snowshoeing, or even a brisk winter hike, there are plenty of outdoor activities that can keep your body moving and spirits high.
Indoor Exercise Ideas. Winter weather may not always be conducive to outdoor activities. Here are a variety of indoor exercise ideas to keep individuals moving in the comfort of their homes. From virtual fitness classes to home workout routines, there are countless ways to stay active without braving the winter chill. Try these indoor activities:
• Crank up some music and dance around your home.
• If you live in a multilevel house, walk up and down the stairs.
• Buy a jump rope and some hand weights and work out while listening to a podcast or watching your favorite show.
• Walk laps around a nearby mall. (You can window shop at the same time.)
• Go bowling.
• Roller or ice skate at your local rink.
• Play volleyball or basketball at your area community center.
Winter Nutrition. Winter can present unique challenges to maintaining a healthy and balanced diet. It’s important to maintain a healthy diet during the winter months in addition to staying active. Try incorporating these tips:
• Include seasonal produce. Take advantage of winter fruits and vegetables such as citrus fruits, apples, Brussel sprouts, sweet potatoes and winter squash. These foods are rich in vitamins, minerals and antioxidants that support immune health.
• Prioritize vitamin D. Since sunlight exposure may be limited during the winter, consider incorporating foods rich in vitamin D into your diet.
• Stay hydrated. It’s easy to forget to stay hydrated in colder weather, but it’s just as important as the summer. Drink water, herbal teas and warm beverages to help maintain proper hydration levels.
• Mindful snacking. Choose nutritious snacks like seeds, nuts, yogurt, fresh fruit or vegetables. Avoid excess intake of processed snacks and sweets, which can lead to energy crashes.