Andy Darling, the director of West Virginia College Campus Recreation, collaborated with Journey West Virginia’s journey and climbing coordinator, Jacob Rex, and their program assist specialist, Emily Chapman, to supply suggestions and recommendation about staying lively in the course of the chilly winter months.
Shifting Exercises Inside
“When weather is a factor, my advice is to identify something you enjoy doing inside to stay active,” states Andy Darling. “In some cases, that may mean translating the things you enjoy outdoors to inside without modification. In other cases, you may need to change things up, and it’s helpful to find ways to make the experience special—like watching a TV program you enjoy while exercising… or soaking in our spa at the end of your workout.”
“For those who prefer to work out at home, be wary of what you may see from various fitness influencers. Having a lot of followers does not mean what a person is sharing is safe or effective. Look for evidence-based programs for self-paced workout videos from the American College of Sports Medicine and others,” Darling advises.
Benefit from the Chilly Open air
“Cold air is such a healing tonic for your body. I learned this from my time living in Norway,” Jacob Rex insists. “Like a cold plunge, it wakes you up and preps your body for movement. Your brain works much better with frequent, novel stimulation. If you are struggling with stress, getting some cold air and sunlight is a great boost for your system. I challenge everyone to embrace the cold this winter.”
“I believe lots of people see winter climate as a hindrance to their capacity to remain lively, when it’s fairly the other. Snow and chilly imply winter sports activities, that are among the greatest mediums to benefit from the outdoor. Snow-covered timber, iced-over creeks and waterfalls, and powdery mountains are the right backdrop to getting some recent air shifting via your physique.
“I will personally advocate for cross-country skiing as the perfect cure to the winter blues. I am a big runner, but running in winter is not always my favorite. Cross-country skiing is one of the best aerobic workouts you can do. It has low impact on joints and is great for your legs and lungs. In terms of downhill skiing, hitting the slopes burns calories at a similar rate as running or jogging. It strengthens your legs, core, and back, and gets fresh air circulating in your system,” Rex notes.
Seize a Exercise Buddy
“Staying active with friends during the winter months can combat feelings of loneliness while using parts of your body that may not get frequent exercise. I know when I go cross-country skiing, I’m seeing the spaces I like to hike with a new perspective while getting off the couch or away from my desk,” Emily Chapman provides.
“I recommend doing a little research but not letting it intimidate you. With anything new, there’s a wealth of knowledge found in friends, professional lessons, and the internet in general. Trying something new can sometimes feel overwhelming, but don’t let the fear of doing something poorly stop you from trying at all. Take it slow, enjoy the scenery and the friends you’re surrounded with, and give a new winter sport a try. If you’re a seasoned outdoorsperson, consider bringing along a friend who has maybe never skied or has only gone once or twice,” Chapman finishes.
This recommendation is each helpful and motivational for individuals who wrestle to remain lively within the colder months. Seize a good friend and check out a brand new out of doors exercise and even simply go for a stroll and get in contact with nature.
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