Staying active during cold weather can be challenging, but it’s essential for maintaining physical health, mental well-being, and mobility, especially as we age. Here are some tips to help you stay active and safe in colder months.
1. Dress in Layers
- Wear moisture-wicking fabrics as the base layer to keep sweat away from your skin, followed by insulating layers like fleece or wool, and a waterproof outer layer to protect against rain or snow.
- Cover exposed skin to prevent frostbite. Use hats, gloves, scarves and warm socks to protect extremities.
- Avoid cotton as it absorbs moisture and can leave you feeling cold.
2. Warm Up Indoors
- Before heading outside, do a warm-up routine indoors to get your blood flowing and muscles warmed up. Simple exercises like marching in place, light stretching or jumping jacks can help prepare your body for the cold.
- Stretching your muscles in a warm environment can also help prevent injuries.
3. Stay Active Indoors
- If it’s too cold or icy to go outside, stay active indoors by doing home workout routines, using fitness apps, or joining Juniper online classes.
- Consider activities like indoor cycling, yoga, bodyweight exercises (like squats, lunges, and push-ups) or dancing to get your heart rate up.
- Stairs can be used for a quick cardio workout or leg-strengthening exercises.
4. Go for Winter Walks
- Walking outdoors is a great way to stay active, even in cold weather. Choose safe, cleared paths, and wear proper footwear with good traction to prevent slipping on ice or snow.
- Shorter, more frequent walks can be easier to manage in cold weather than long outings. Even 10-15 minute walks can help you stay active.
- Bring a friend or join a walking group to make it more enjoyable and hold yourself accountable.
Arthritis Foundation Exercise Program
This is a group exercise class for people with arthritis who want to learn safe ways to stay active, reduce pain and move more easily. This class is a community-based, low impact, recreational exercise program. You’ll:
- Practice stretching, breathing, and balance
- Control body pain
- Learn techniques for boosting energy and mood
- Learn ways to keep from falling when out in your community
- Increase confidence about staying active and managing arthritis
December 18, 2024 – February 24, 2025
Days: Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays
Time: 1:45-2:45 p.m.
Location: The Legends of Woodbury (map)
Class Leader: Brynne Gadbury
Provider: Nygard Fitness, LLC