It’s no secret … staying active during the winter months is really important!
Recently, I wrote a blog (you can find it HERE) about what’s called the “Winter Effect”. In a nutshell, I tend to see a lot of patients – especially those with spine related issues – with aches and pains after winter has winded down. This is mainly due to the fact that they were sedentary during the cold months and tried to jump right back into their old routine. I can’t stress enough that sitting around for extended periods of time can be harmful to your body!
I understand that it’s not easy to get motivated and moving when it’s freezing cold outside, but getting started is always the hardest part. If you’re sick of “going nowhere” on the treadmill at the gym and looking for some alternate ideas, you might want to consider:
- Taking a walk at the local mall. Most malls in our area open before the stores do. Grab a friend or two – or pop your headphones in – and take a nice, warm stroll through Wyckoff Park, Riverside Square, or the Garden State Plaza.
- Bundling up and taking a hike. If the temperature is bearable, bundle up in some weather-appropriate gear, and take a hike at your favorite scenic spot. The fresh air is good for your lungs and you’ll get your heart pumping.
- Being tech-savvy. Instead of venturing out in the cold to a workout class, you can exercise in the comfort of your own home. Download a fitness app or two on one of your devices and get moving!
- Cross-country skiing. Cross-country skiing is one of the best aerobic workouts you can get, especially during the winter months. Since you’re also using your arms, your entire body is getting an equal workout; no single muscle group is overstressed.
Here are some photos of my recent Keene Valley trip, right outside of Lake Placid. As always, I had a fantastic time back country skiing and snowshoeing with my cousin, Brad, and friends. We skied down frozen riverbeds and shacked up in cabins through the Adirondack Mountain Club. It was an epic time!