KEEPING ACTIVE WITH WINTER WALKING

When walking in summer you get to enjoy the sunshine, and the outdoors in general. Walking in winter however, can be a completely different experience. Here’s how to make your winter walk as enjoyable and beneficial as your summer one.

Walking at any time of the year is good for your health. Not only are you getting that much-needed exercise, but you’re also improving circulation, boosting your mood and energy levels, building core strength, and helping to improve mobility. 

In summer, getting out and about is easy to do.You want to be out in the sunshine, so taking a quick walk down around the block or to the park is an enjoyable experience. In winter, when the air is cold, or it’s a little bit drizzly, you may be more inclined to want to stay indoors. 

While it’s all too easy to cuddle up on the couch with a good book and a cup of hot chocolate, it’s important to get the same level of exercise now as you did during those summer months. Once you’ve built up the motivation to get your walking shoes on and out the door, you’ll remember just how refreshing a walk can be, whatever the weather. 

Here are a few things you can do to enhance that experience just a little bit more. 

1. Warm up and down
   When you go from the warmth of your home to the colder temperatures outside, it can take time for your body to adjust. Be sure to warm up slowly, which helps reduce the risk of injury. Once you finish your walk, it’s helpful to bring your heart rate back down to normal by warming down and stretching. 
2. Drink water
   Staying hydrated is just as crucial in winter as it is in summer.You will lose fluid through perspiration, so drink plenty of water before your walk, and after as well. 
3. Check the weather
   Check the weather before you head outdoors and delay your walk until any forecast storms pass over. Doing so can make your walk more comfortable. 
4. Be comfortable
   Wear appropriate footwear.Your walking shoes should be breathable, lightweight, and cushioned for comfort. 
5. Check your posture
   ​Walking is beneficial for the body, but it’s even more so when you maintain the correct posture. Keep your body straight and be mindful of how you hold yourself throughout the entirety of your walk. Speak to your chiropractor about posture and balance when walking. 

Don’t let the winter blues set in. There are several great walking apps available from the App Store or Google Play which can help motivate you. For example the Just Start Walking app allows users to map their walks, set goals based on kilometres walked, share their walk on social media and repeat saved walks. Find walking routes to suit your experience level. You may be inspired to walk further and faster, and your body will thank you for it.