4 Cold-Weather Workouts That Get You on the Move
I’ll level with you: The cold weather kind of sucks.
But it really just depends on your perspective.
Someone once said, “There’s no such thing as bad weather, just bad clothing!”
Just because the winter has hit, it doesn’t mean you can’t get in some cold-weather workouts. In fact, taking your workout outside in the winter helps you get that fresh air and bit of sun your body desperately craves.
Let’s explore this idea a little more and see if we can convince you to venture outside!
The Benefits of Cold-Weather Workouts
Harvard Health indicates that exercising in the cold might be much more efficient for you and your body. Simply put, your body doesn’t have to work as hard to fend off overheating!
Plus, the cold is associated with transforming white fat into energy-burning brown fat.
On top of this, seasonal depression is a real thing. Getting outside and gaining every little bit of sun can help prevent the winter blues and full-blown depression.
Cold-Weather Workout Safety Tips
Before you head out on that cold-weather workout, let’s look at a few safety tips. The last thing you need is frostbite or to be shivering it out while you’re trying to get active. Here’s what you should know:
- Layer it up: The great part about layers is that you can take one off if you become too warm. But if you’re too cold, you can’t exactly put on a layer you don’t have. We recommend wearing a synthetic layer underneath, along with wool and warmer layers over the top.
- Pay attention to your hands and feet: This, again, means layers. Worried about your feet getting cold? Wear two socks instead of one. Do your hands always get cold? Try holding onto some hand warmers in your mitts.
- Don’t forget the sunscreen: Yes, it’s winter, and yes, the sun’s rays aren’t as strong. But you can still get a sunburn! Apply sunscreen to any exposed skin.
- Bring water: Despite the lack of heat, you can still quickly become dehydrated. Plus, it’s so nice to be able to reach for a sip of water whenever you need it.
- Watch where you walk or run: The snow offers easy places for rocks and other hazards to hide. Keep your eyes peeled and ensure you’re paying attention to every step or exercise of the way!
4 Cold-Weather Workouts That Get You on the Move
Are you ready for this? It’s time to move your body in the cold. (WARNING: It might just warm you up and make you fall head over heels for those winter months.) Let’s get started!
1. Try Cross-Country Skiing
Cross-country skiing isn’t just for the pros or really seasoned athletes. This can be a ton of fun for anyone, and it’s one heck of a workout.
You work your glutes, quads, and more. You’ll also recruit your stabilization muscles since keeping balanced can sometimes be half the battle (especially on really hilly routes).
And when you get good, you can even make this an interval workout. Grab your phone, put on a timer, fly for a minute, and then go slow for the next minute. Alternate between the two.
The best part about this workout is that you can literally do it in a big empty field covered in snow if there are no trails near your home!
2. Swap Your Hiking Boots for Snowshoes
Just because it’s winter, it doesn’t mean you can’t climb up to incredible and breath-taking views. In fact, many trails are open throughout the winter months for skiing or snowshoeing.
Snowshoeing offers a way to do the same thing you do in the summer in the cold. Plus, with snowshoes, you won’t be sinking knee-deep into snow or struggling to pull bits of snow out of your boots.
The cool thing about snowshoes is that you can also rent them for the day at many outdoor sports stores. Google it online and find a place close to you! You might be able to do this at a local park as well.
Check this article out next: Winter Self-Care for Your Zodiac Sign
3. Find Your Zen With Snow-Ga
There are so many different types of yoga. Yet, there’s nothing quite like a little snow-ga.
This is one workout you’ll want to ensure you’re dressed appropriately for. This means layers, my friends!
Basically, snow-ga is yoga in the snow. Usually, this type of yoga is power yoga or something similar since we definitely want to keep the body warm and avoid totally static positions.
You can do this all on your own or try to find local classes in your area. Try it out!
4. Tobogganing
Okay, you’re probably wondering what’s up with this one. But tobogganing isn’t just a fun ride down the hill.
Get this: You’re doing a workout going up that hill too, and if you run back up, you’ll be burning even more calories.
So, have fun, and go ahead and count this one as a killer workout. I guarantee after a couple of runs up that hill, and you’ll be feeling it. You can even make this fun with friends or family by committing to a race. Whoever does three toboggan runs down the fastest wins.
Get Out in the Cold
It won’t hurt you - as long as you go in prepared.
Use our tips above and let loose with a cold-weather workout. Not only will the winter be more fun, but it’ll also go by that much faster. Plus, you’ll enjoy it that much more. Maybe winter will become your new favorite season!
Related article: 7 Ways to Beat Those Winter Blues
