Focus on Wellness: Stay Fit This Winter
According to the National Institutes of Health, the average American gains about a pound of weight over the winter holiday season – this weight gain over several years can be a major contributing factor to obesity.
In addition to tempting holiday meals and treats which lead to overeating and weight gain, the cold weather at this time of year makes it more difficult to exercise.
But, as it turns out, the cold weather can actually help with weight loss. Dressing warm and adhering to a regimen of regular outdoor activity while in the cold can actually prove more beneficial than outdoor exercise in the warmer months. While exercising in the cold, the heat that the body generates during a workout dissipates more quickly, keeping you comfortable at higher intensities. Accordingly, the body burns more calories, and you’ll slim down quicker.
If the cold weather is just too much to bear, there are plenty of ways to exercise within the cozy confines of the house or in other indoor venues. Here are just a few suggestions:
Jump Rope
This can be done almost anywhere since it requires very little space.
Walk up and down an indoor section of stairs
Join a health club
Often, great deals are available at this time of year.
Go to an indoor pool
Many community pools offer lap swimming hours or even water aerobics classes at an affordable price.
Walk at the mall
A quick stroll around the mall a few times will go a long way in eliminating weight gain throughout the winter.
Invest in home exercise equipment
Refurbished equipment can often be found on the cheap.
For many people, the winter holidays are a time to take respite from the often tedious exercise routines during the warmer months. Unfortunately, while the mind may need a break, the body cannot afford to take three months off. Staying healthy and active during the winter now will ensure many more enjoyable holidays to come.
This is the last in a series of articles on health and fitness issues facing ATU members. For more information on these issues, or to view previous Focus on Wellness articles, go to www.atu.org.
