4 Sure-Proof Ways to Stay Active in the Winter: Rec. Reading v12
We recognize that habit-building and good mental health can’t be isolated to just one corner of the internet. Myrth is our favorite tool, but it’s not our only tool. In our regular Recommended Reading series, we’ll share links to articles, books, and other tools that we think you’ll find helpful in your journey.
One important tool for managing mental health is exercise, but the short winter days and blustery weather sometimes get in the way of our usual physical activity. That’s a problem, because in winter, a lot of people struggle with feeling depressed or anxious thanks to Seasonal Affective Disorder.
So we thought it would be nice to spend some time in this week’s Recommended Reading talking about ways to stay active during the winter. We’re excited to hear your favorite tips and tricks, too.
1. Protect Yourself from the Weather
People who are new to exercise or new to cold weather often don’t realize that they need to take special precautions if exercising outside on a very cold day. Thankfully, the American Heart Association has some helpful information:
Staying warm and dry when heading out to exercise in cold weather is all about layers. A little preparation can keep you safe from cold weather hazards like hypothermia and frostbite. Cold temperatures, strong winds and damp conditions (like rain and snow) steal your body heat. For example, according to the National Weather Service, a 30-degree day with 30-mile-an-hour wind feels like about 15 degrees. And if you get wet (from rain, snow or perspiration) that effect is only magnified. That’s why layers of clothing are so important. They help trap the heat and form a kind of insulation against the elements.
Staying warm is step one to having a safe, productive outdoor adventure this winter.
2. Helpful Tips for Winter Exercise
There’s a lot to learn about being active in winter, and this listicle is a great place to start. We especially loved this safety tip for increased visibility:
Black may be chic, but bright clothes are better for outdoor exercise. Not only is it colder in winter, it’s darker too. Poor visibility from rain, snow, or overcast or dark skies makes it tougher for others to see you. This applies whether you’re sharing the road with motorists or sharing the trail or path with other snow-sports enthusiasts.
Staying safe outdoors in the winter weather involves protecting not just yourself, but others. With a little planning ahead, you can share public space with everybody else so that you all have a good time.
3. Getting Started with Snow Sports
If you’ve been wanting to take up a snow sport, but aren’t sure how to get started, this article might be helpful to you. It’s in an easy Q&A format and addresses all the major concerns, including getting your hands on the right equipment for staying active in winter:
Before you buy equipment, you should first try out a snow sport. Ski shops and ski areas rent equipment. When you tell them you are a first timer, the shop technician will get you set up with the right gear sized for you. Rental gear is available for all snow sports. You can rent gear at downhill ski resorts, multi-sport ski areas, groomed Nordic centers, and winter outdoor shops. Most carry rental packages for downhill skiing, snowboarding, Nordic skate or classic skiing, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing.
With a little research, you’ll have all the information you need to try a new winter activity and add to your collection of ways to get outside during the winter.
When it’s just too crummy outside, or you simply can’t handle going out into the cold, there are lots of great options for exercising at home. We liked this helpful roundup of good online exercise options. Whether you need a good, deep stretch with some soothing yoga or a round of cardio to get your pulse going, you’ll find something online to fit your needs.
We hope this will help you keep filling your days with activity during this winter season when it can be hard to get moving. Onward and upward!
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