By Lisa Owens

Don’t let Old Man Winter get the best of you this season. Many times we use the cold weather as an excuse to not exercise. I know there are mornings (ok, pretty much every morning) when my bed looks so warm and friendly, and going outside is the last thing I want to do. Despite not wanting to go outside, I have never regretted actually getting out there and exercising.

It is so important to keep up your health during this season. There are so many sicknesses being passed around, and exercise is a vital part to keeping your immune system strong. Exercise during the winter can also help keep those winter blues away. It’s important to get outside and see the sun once in a while.  However, there are a few important things to remember when exercising in the cold. We’ll show you some was you can prevent the cold from getting the best of you.

~ Wear layers – It’s important to be warm, but you don’t want to be too warm. Exercise can generate a lot of heat. While you’re working hard you may start to sweat which will keep you warm for the time being. Then when you slow down or tire it will be that sweat that will chill you.  Make sure you can take off, and put on layers as needed.

~ Try Fleece and other cold weather fabrics – Make sure your clothing is breathable. Cotton is not recommended. Go for clothing labeled “wicking fabric”, or “tech fabric”. Those are usually good at pulling moisture from your skin.

~Keep Your Hands and Feet Protected – When you exercise your blood is pumped more to your core in order to keep your heart pumping, and your lungs oxygenated. As a result not as much blood is circulated in your hands and feet. Good insulated shoes, and gloves are important.

~ Drink Fluid – Just because it’s cold doesn’t mean you’re not going to sweat. It’s important to replace the water you’re losing.

~ Wear Sunscreen – This is especially important if you’re in the mountains. Skiers, snowboarders, and snow-shoers are especially vulnerable to sunburns due to the high altitude. Many people forget about sunscreen because heat from the sun isn’t as noticeable.

~ Take a Phone or GPS – Be sure to have a way to call for help if you get stranded. If the weather gets particularly bad you don’t want to be stuck in it. It is also smart for back country skiers to have a way to signal for help.

Remembering these tips can be the difference between enjoying the winter, and staying inside with cabin fever. While it’s important to get outside, remember to be smart about it. Don’t let the cold keep you strapped to a treadmill for the next few months. Find new exercises you can enjoy, and don’t let the cold get you out of shape!