Before you know it, there will be snow on the ground (at least where I’m from). Whether you’re a fan of winter or not, it will be here, and sometimes it’s easy to put on 10 pounds or more. Curling up for a Netflix binge/unhealthy snack session sounds much more appealing than staying active and in shape! If you want to maintain your wellness, use these tips on how to stay healthy in the winter.
1) Go for a Walk
Even if it’s snowing or cold, try to go for a walk. Your body works harder in the winter than the summer because it does additional work to keep warm. You can do less and get the same benefits of a walk in the summer. Going for a walk will ensure that you burn some calories and keep your health in check.
2) Motivate Yourself to Stay Healthy in the Winter
If you aren’t a fan of the cold, then it’s hard to stay motivated to keep healthy. Many people dread the idea of going outside in the winter. Read this article for additional tips on staying motivated. Try to remember that it will be a lot harder to get back in shape in the spring if you let yourself slip. Do whatever you can to keep yourself motivated.
3) Choose Your Beverage Wisely
Find a healthy drink to replace hot chocolate. A hot cup of tea will have the same warming effects but will also give you a wellness boost. Find one with herbal ingredients that will strengthen your immune system and keep you healthy throughout the winter season.
4) Have Injury Awareness to Stay Healthy in the Winter
If you skip working out for the season, then you could be more likely to get hurt when you restart your routine. It’s tough to stop for a few months then pick up right where you left off. This is a recipe for injuries! Try to stay on track in the winter, but if you don’t, make sure you start light in the spring.
5) Start a Home Gym
Home gyms are really popular right now, and they’re here to stay. You can save loads of money by ditching your gym membership and working out at home. These articles will help:
- Home Gym Tips and Suggestions: Your Best 2020 Home Gym
- 20 Minute Home Work Out – Get Shredded Fast 2020
- At Home Gym Essentials: Top Necessities for Home Gym 2020
If you really hate going out in the cold, this is the best way to stay in shape in the winter. You can have a great set-up for less than $100 dollars. And if you’re completely broke, a bodyweight workout will do just fine.
6) Hydrate to Stay Healthy in the Winter
One of the biggest things I hate about winter is dry skin. If you have this problem as well, make sure you’re getting enough water on a daily basis. Break out the skin moisturizers if you have too! I prefer this brand. This will keep your skin comfortable and healthy.
7) Workout if You’re Sick?
When you have congestion in your chest or achy muscles, then it’s okay to rest and skip a few workouts. But if you just have a sore throat or small cold, you can still get some exercise in. This research study discusses some of the immune system benefits and more when you work out with some illnesses.
8) Start an Indoor Garden to Stay Healthy in the Winter
Plants and flowers are a great source of oxygen and moisture in your home. This will help the indoor physical environment as well as potentially boost your mood. When there’s snow outside, typically the only colors you’ll see are white and brown. With indoor plants, you can brighten your day and pick whatever colorful design you want.
9) Dress Right for Outdoor Workouts
Choose moisture resistance clothing and shoes when you are going to workout outdoors. If you get soaking wet during a workout, you can harm yourself and potentially get hypothermia. The right outfit will ensure your full workout benefits. Try Gore-Tex or other clothing that’s designed to be used for long periods of time in any type of weather.
10) Snack Right to Stay Healthy in the Winter
Sometimes the right choice is to just sit on the couch, flip on Netflix or a movie, and snack on some great tasting foods. Pick something healthy like nuts, trail mix, jerky, or even the right kind of popcorn. This is much healthier than eating a bowl of chocolate candy. You will find something you enjoy if you search hard enough.