Cold weather exercising

Cold weather may mean you need to modify your usual activities, so it's a good time to experiment with new forms of exercise. Outdoor activities to try include cross-country or downhill skiing, skating, or brisk walking in the snow. Just being outdoors on crisp, cool, blue-sky days can be spiritually uplifting. Indoor activities can usually be continued year-around, but why not that the opportunity to try a new class or exercise machine? Also, using exercise videos at home can be a good option on days when you can't get out.

Proper dressing is essential for outdoor activities in the cold, to avoid hypothermia and frostbite. The three best tips are:

  • Layer clothes. The clothes next to your skin should wick away moisture, and outer layers should protect from wind and cold.
  • Cover your head. As much as 50% of the body's heat loss in the cold is from the head and neck, so wear a protective hat.
  • Protect your hands. Mittens provide more warmth than gloves.

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