Tips to Maintain an Active Lifestyle During Winter

In the winter, it seems like it’s a natural tendency for us to go into hibernation mode.  For many, the cold weather is a major deterrent for spending time outdoors, which can often translate to a major decrease in your activity level. Even going to the gym can be an arduous task in the winter weather. Nevertheless, it’s important that you don’t let the weather prevent you from leading an active lifestyle. Check out our tips for staying active and feeling your best while the weather is at its worst!

1) Enhance your daily routine. Most individuals don’t realize how much less active they are during the frigid weather. Making small adjustments in your daily life can help you keep your activity level up this season, without forcing you to spend a ton of extra time outdoors. Here are a few ways to boost your daily routine:

a. Take the stairs whenever possible. The average person burns about 10 calories each flight of stairs they take. Choosing the stairs over the elevator a few times a day can add up and put you on your way to a more active winter.

b. Park at the end of the parking lot. It may seem like a small change, but every extra step counts. Light walking for 15 minutes burns about 31 calories.

c. Multitask when doing chores around the house.  You probably don’t even realize all the calories you burn when cleaning—think of all the bends, squats, and stair runs you do! In just one hour, you can burn 170 calories mopping, 102 calories putting away groceries, and 88 calories putting away clothes. Boost these tasks by adding in a few extra workout moves to burn even more calories!

2) Workout at home. Afraid to leave the house? No problem. Getting a great workout at home is easier than ever. With mobile device apps, YouTube, and home workout DVDs, you can have a personal trainer at your fingertips any time of day. And the best part? Many of these are free. Stock up on home workout gear, like dumbbells, a yoga mat, and resistance bands to take your home workouts to the next level.

3) Don’t forget about your nutrition. Nutrition plays an essential role in determining how energetic you feel. In the winter, when hearty meals reign supreme and baked goods run rampant, it can be hard to motivate yourself to work out. Maintaining a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and protein can help you avoid overeating and feeling too weighed down.

In addition to eating lighter, be sure to consume a wide array of fruits and vegetables to ensure that you are getting a variety of nutrients. Not only will these foods help lift your energy level, but they all will be a great help to your immune system. If you feel that you are lacking variety in your winter fruit and veggie intake, consider our line of Juice Plus+ products to help bridge the gaps between what you are eating and what you should be eating.  

4) Embrace the weather. Although it’s cold, winter can be one of the most beautiful times of the year. Get outdoors and take in the scenery! Partake in seasonal activities like ice skating, skiing, and snowboarding; which are all great workouts that can work muscles you may normally neglect. Tis the season!  

Staying active and eating right will help you maintain a healthy lifestyle and get you through the dreaded cold of winter. What do you and your family do to stay active in the winter months?