It’s hard to stay motivated when the cold weather sets in and all you want to do is curl up on the couch. But it’s essential to keep yourself fit and healthy, especially during the winter months. Not only will you avoid the dreaded winter weight gain, but you’ll also stay strong and healthy to fight off any colds or flu that may come your way.
So, how can you stay fit this winter? Here are six tips to help you out:
1. Get Moving
You don’t have to stay indoors all day just because it’s chilly outdoors. Bundle up and get moving! Take a brisk walk around the block, hike in the woods, or hit the slopes for some downhill skiing. Whatever activity you choose, keep your heart rate up and your body moving.
You can even turn your living room into a makeshift gym. You can do tons of great workouts right in your own home, such as jumping jacks, push-ups, crunches, and squats. Just 10 minutes of cardio and 10 minutes of strength training each day will help keep you fit all winter long.
2. Eat Healthily
It’s easy to indulge in unhealthy comfort foods when it’s cold outside, but resist the temptation! Staying fit requires eating healthy, nutritious meals. Fill your plate with plenty of fruits, vegetables, and lean protein to help boost your immune system and keep your energy levels up.
And when you do have a craving for something sweet or salty, reach for a healthy alternative. For example, instead of chips, munch on some baked kale chips. Or, instead of cake, enjoy a slice of applesauce cake. You can indulge your cravings by making smart choices without derailing your fitness goals.
3. Keep Your Home Warm
You may be tempted to turn down the heat to save on your energy bill, but don’t do it! Keeping your home too cold can actually make you more susceptible to illness. The CDC recommends setting your thermostat to 68 degrees Fahrenheit in the winter to help prevent colds, flu, and other respiratory infections.
Also, don’t forget to keep up with your home’s winter maintenance. For example, ensure your furnace is serviced, and your water heater is replaced every five to seven years. A broken furnace or heater can not only make your home uncomfortable, but it can also be dangerous.
4. Stay Hydrated
It’s important to drink plenty of water all year round, but it’s especially important in the winter. When it’s cold outside, we tend to drink less water because we don’t feel as thirsty. But if we don’t stay hydrated, our bodies can’t function properly.
So, ensure you’re drinking at least eight glasses of water daily. You can also get your fluids from other sources, such as soup, fruits, and vegetables. Just be sure to avoid sugary drinks like soda and juice, which can actually dehydrate you.
5. Take Your Vitamins
Eating a healthy diet is important for staying fit, but sometimes it’s not enough. That’s why it’s a good idea to take a daily multivitamin to ensure you’re getting all the nutrients you need.
Vitamins C and D are especially important in the winter. Vitamin C helps boost your immune system, while vitamin D helps your body absorb calcium, which is essential for strong bones. You can find both of these vitamins in pill form at your local drugstore.
6. Keep Up with Your Shots
Winter is the time when illnesses like the flu and pneumonia are most common. But you can help protect yourself by getting vaccinated every year. The flu vaccine is available as early as September, so be sure to get yours before the peak of flu season.
You should also get a pneumonia shot if you’re 65 or older, have a chronic illness, or smoke cigarettes. Pneumonia shots are available at most doctor’s offices and pharmacies.
Bonus Tip: Enjoy the Season!
Winter can be a tough time to stay fit, but it doesn’t have to be all doom and gloom. Embrace the season and find ways to enjoy yourself while still staying on track. For example, go ice skating with your family, build a snowman with your kids, or take a scenic winter hike. This is your chance to have some fun and create lasting memories.
So, there you have it – six tips to help you stay fit this winter. Just remember to eat healthily, stay hydrated, take your vitamins, and keep up with your shots. And don’t forget to enjoy the season! Now get out there and make the most of winter.
