Winter Walking Tips For Less Active Women
Last Updated on January 22, 2019 by lydiaf1963
Don’t let the cold weather stop you from rocking your fitness goals! You don’t have to be a die-hard athlete to enjoy getting some exercise when the temperature drops. Check out these winter workout tips for less active women and get your walk in!
Winter Workout Safety Tips
Even though I’m focusing on walking in this post there are still a few safety issues that might come up. First, be aware that exercising in cold weather can aggravate certain respiratory conditions and may cause other stress to your body, so take it easy if you aren’t used to being outdoors. If you have any health concerns about walking outside in cold weather, talk to your health care provider.
Wear sturdy footwear that will keep your feet dry and help you navigate icy patches.
Be sure to tell someone where you are going on your walk, in case you slip and fall. Better yet, bring someone with you!
Also, when walking on or near a road, be aware of traffic. Sun glare might make it difficult for drivers to see you, not to mention the difficulties of managing a vehicle in icy conditions.
How to Dress for Winter Workouts When You Don’t Have Athletic Gear
Other than sturdy shoes, you don’t need a lot of athletic wear to have a comfortable winter walk. The important thing is to dress in enough layers to keep warm but still be able to move with ease.
Here’s what I like to wear when the temperature is below freezing:
Scarf or neck gaiter
Gloves or mittens
Sleeveless vest under my coat
Heavy shirt with long sleeves
Knee socks
Walking shoes
When it’s above freezing, I’ll wear a lighter hat and my shorter coat. I may leave the scarf and vest at home depending on the conditions. I also like to carry a bag with me to hold items I take off as I warm up with exercise.
More tips for Winter Workouts
If it’s windy, start your walk by heading into the wind. That way, when you loop around to head home the wind will be at your back.
Be sure to drink something when you get home. You might not feel thirsty, but your body will welcome the liquid.
Determine how much time you’ll spend outdoors based on the conditions. Try to avoid getting wet, either from walking in snow or in a winter rain.
Benefits of Exercising in Winter
In general, a 30-minute walk will burn around 200 calories, which can help prevent winter weight gain. At the same time, you’ll improve your circulation as well as tone muscles all over your body.
If you’re like me and suffer from the Winter Blues, you may be interested to know that walking outdoors has been proven to combat depression. So, dress warmly and get outside and enjoy the winter landscape, it’s invigorating!
Photos from Pixabay.com
More info:
Safety Tips for Exercising Outdoors – Mayo Clinic
6 Cold Weather Exercise Guidelines – Dr Mercola
13 Cold Weather Exercise Tips – Spark People
Fitness for Older Women:
