What we’ve learned from recent months is that staying active and getting outdoors helps keep us healthy mentally and physically when there isn’t much else to do. Staying active while the temperatures continue to drop and the dark evenings creep in is easier said that done, check out our top tips for staying active during winter instead of spending too much time beside the fire!
How to Brace the Cold and Stay Active
1. Wear thermal layers
Layering up for going outdoors whether you’re going for a run or a hike can help insulate your body – just like when you put the heating on in your home when it’s cold! Your summer activewear might not do anymore so it’s a good idea to invest in some thermals. Make sure your outer layer is waterproof so if you get caught in the rain you won’t be damp the whole way home.
2. Prepare a hot water bottle for outdoor activities
Before you go for a run, long walk or a hike in the cold, have a hot water bottle prepared for when you get back into your car or when you reach home so you can bring your temperature up again. It’s a good idea to wait 10 minutes or so for your body temperate to adjust before getting changed into cosy clothes (Unless you’re damp!). Make a warm flask or cup of tea as well to warm yourself up!
3. Avoid staying in damp clothes
Tis not the season to be increasing your chances of catching a cold so if you’ve been caught in the rain outside, change as soon as you get home and even hop in the shower. Wearing damp clothes is not only uncomfortable but can cause harm to your health and skin.
4. Make the most of daylight
With the dark evenings now setting in, it leaves a short window to get out a walk or hike in daylight, especially if you’re working during the day. Try get out to stretch your legs even if it’s only for an hour during the day, perhaps on your lunch break, doing this everyday can have a significant impact mentally and physically. If you are heading out in the dark, make sure to wear bright clothing or even a hi vis vest to keep yourself safe on the roads.
5. You can exercise indoors too
Getting outdoors for some fresh air has loads of benefits however, here in Northern Ireland it’s not always dry outside so you may need to reinvent how you get active. Yoga or Pilates is a great way to clear your head and keep your fitness levels up. There are plenty of local classes which you can sign up to and join in from your own living room such as Flow Studio yoga classes or TDR Academy Pilates classes.
How are you staying active? Let us know if you have any tips by sharing them on our Facebook and Twitter pages using the hashtag #SmarterLiving