posted Jan 13, 2011, 5:37 PM by Unknown user
[
updated Mar 31, 2011, 11:49 AM by Stephany F.
]
When the temperature drops and you aren't feeling up to a gym
visit, keep yourself in shape with these wintry work out ideas for both indoors and outdoors:
- Go for a winter
walk or run. Make sure to bundle up in multiple layers so that you will
feel comfortable. This is always a beneficial option because you can
get some Vitamin D from the sun. This is also an excellent way to achieve the recommended
30 minutes of physical activity a day. Whether you go with a friend, or
go solo, it will prove to be a refreshing activity for both your mind
and body.
- Get your dance on! Dancing is a perfect cardio option as well as
a stress reliever. It's easy to do and makes for an endorphin-filled
study break. Invite your friends to double the fun. Dancing
incorporates a wide variety of muscles in the body so let loose and
break out those moves. Put on your favorite jams and get moving!
- Strengthen your muscles within the comfort of your room! All you
need is some motivation and a chair. You can hit most of the main
muscle groups with some simple exercises. For the upper body, you can
do push ups on the floor and tricep dips off the seat of your chair. To
improve core muscular endurance, try traditional planks and side
planks. For the lower body, incorporate simple squats and lunges. Mix
and match these to your preference and aim for about 1-3 sets of 8-12
reps of each exercise depending on your fitness level! Remember to
stretch those muscles out.
- Get your zen on. Try some stress reducing yoga moves to not only
improve flexibility, but to help you relax as well. To learn some
simple moves and postures click here. Basic poses include the bridge,
cobra, downward dog, mountain, and warrior. All you have to do is pick
up on a few of these stretches, turn on soothing music, and perform the
empowering poses.
- Play! Who says you can ever be too old to partake in the winter
fun? Head out to an ice skating rink near you and lace up. Ice skating
takes balance, core stability, and some leg power. It can also serve as
cardio. If you go with friends, this scores as a double bonus: fun and
exercise.
Staying in shape doesn't require a daily
visit to a workout facility, so get creative and enjoy some of these
non-traditional ways to stay fit and healthy!
By: Maggie Young
Sources: Nutrition.About, Author
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