hibernation – it only works for bears
Winter weather is a good excuse to stay inside and be sedentary. Rain, snow or whatever winter brings drives many people indoors.

That’s OK if you can exercise indoors at a health club, gym or other facility. Even “mall walking,” where you go to your local mall preferably before the stores open and spend at least 25 minutes in brisk walking, can get you moving during the dark, cold winter months.

Whatever you do, inside or out, do something to keep yourself active. If you don’t you’ll lose any progress you made toward getting in shape during the past summer.

go with the flow
You can’t fight the weather or change it – so you may as well join with it. If it’s raining, put on your raincoat and take a walk. If it’s snowing, get out your snow shovel and clean off the sidewalk. In the fall, rake leaves. In the early spring, clean up winter debris and set out cold-tolerant plants.

The idea is to get outside no matter what. Be adaptable.

make room for exercise in your holidays
Going to Grandma’s for Christmas? Planing a New Year’s trip to see friends? Find an interesting local attraction and plan a walk. Riverfront parks are common. A local zoo provides exercise for the entire family.

Of course, you can go skiing, snowboarding or even play golf or tennis in many areas of the country. But whatever you do at home for regular exercise, you can probably do it when you’re away.

don’t stow your gear
Even in the most severe climate, there’s a day or two during the winter when a bike ride would be possible. And variety really helps make exercise less boring.

Even if you prefer swimming outdoors, find an indoor pool to use once or twice a month during the winter. Trade your walking shoes for snow or rain boots and explore a new trail. The bad weather will make it even more interesting.

vacation where you can be active
That wintertime vacation can be a real boost to your health. Instead of sitting around the pool, go swimming. Instead of planning your day by the restaurants, you want to visit, make activities the center of your day and food the afterthought.

If possible, park the rental car and walk. Or at least find a spot at the far end of the parking lot and walk to the place you want to go. Try taking the stairs instead of the elevator. And check out the growing number of community fitness centers open to the public for a nominal fee.

get into the light
Winter is usually dark and cloudy with short days and long nights. When the sun shines, get out and enjoy it. When you’re inside, be sure the room you’re in is well lighted. Darkness breeds depression. And when you’re depressed, you don’t want to exercise. Fresh air also helps. Air out your house regularly.

active living checklist
□ Make exercise a top priority.
□ Check out specific exercise with your doctor first.
□ Plan some kind of physical activity every day.
□ Start gradually. Build endurance.
□ Be Consistent.
□ Choose something you like to do.
□ Vary your activities. Variety is the spice . . . !
□ Involve a friend.
□ Be sure to have the right shoes.
□ Drink lots of water.
□ Exercise until you sweat.
□ If it hurts, stop. Exercise shouldn’t be painful.
□ Tell others about your exercise program. It builds accountability.
□ Prayer is exercise too! It helps keep you in spiritual shape.

Beat the winter “blahs”.
Enjoy better health.
Get moving and have fun!