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Feature Articles: Exercise
Keeping Fit When Weather Keeps You In
Linda Rellergert, Nutrition Specialist in St.
Charles County
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When the weather outside is frightful, you may be tempted to
stay curled up inside by the fire rather than brave the elements
for the sake of fitness. Staying active is too important for
health to wait until the spring thaw. Try some of the
following suggestions to have a more active lifestyle, whatever
the weather.
Fit in several short fitness breaks throughout the day.
Health experts recommend a minimum of 30 minutes of movement on
most days, but that time can be broken into shorter segments.
Try a couple of 10 to 15
minute periods a day and vary the activities. For example, take a
stretch break instead of a coffee break at work. Or use
household chores like vacuuming or dusting as an opportunity to
move vigorously. Get to work just 5 minutes early or stay just 5
minutes late to use the time to walk inside or out.
Explore new activities.
If the cold weather keeps you from participating in your
usual activities, view this as a good opportunity to try
something new. Include a mix of aerobic, flexibility and
strength training activities. Try mall walking; indoor swimming
or other water activities; sign up for Tai Chi; or take dancing
lessons. Treat yourself to a new aerobic dance video, or look
for a yoga program on TV. Join or start a church or
community-based sports team. Look into joining the YMCA or other
community fitness program.
Buy a piece of exercise equipment.
A treadmill or stationary bicycle may be just the ticket for
keeping you moving and motivated. Learn as much as you can
before shopping, and consider purchasing gently used equipment
rather than new. Try listening to music or books on tape or CD,
watching TV, or reading a good book while on the treadmill or
bike to keep your mind occupied and make the time fly. You won't
want to stop!
Last update: Wednesday, July 16, 2008
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