Keeping active in colder weather 

With the weather on the turn and the nights drawing in, it can feel like a bigger challenge to stay active. But don’t give up hope, all it takes is some adapting and planning to keep you active through the winter months. Use some of the below tips to help:

1. Use daylight hours
   
   If other commitments allow, try and do some active outdoors during the day. If you have work try a walking meeting or doing a short yoga video during your lunch. Getting sunlight is also good for mental health and boosting mood. 
   
   
   
2. Reduce your sedentary time during the day
   
   While going about your day to day activities make sure you are spending time on your feet and reducing the amount of time you are sat down in one go for.

    
   
   

3. Try an online video or at home workout
   
   The internet is full of free online home workouts which can be done anywhere and at any time. If you’d prefer to stay indoors, try some of these to find something you enjoy. Couch to Fitness is a good place to start!
    
   
   
4. Think about safety
   
   If you do venture outdoors make sure you can be seen by others. Wear some reflective clothing and carry a light source such as a headtorch.  
   
   
   
5. Make sure you’re wearing the right gear
   
   Just as important as being seen is being clothed in something warm and comfortable. Make sure that what you’re wearing will prepare you for the cold air. If the activity you’re doing makes you feel warmer consider wearing things you can take off and put on again easily.  
   
   
   
6. Think outside the box
   
   The winter could be the perfect time to try something new. You could try a racquet sport at your local leisure centre, venture to a swimming pool and even a climbing wall.  
   
   
   
7. Ensure you stay hydrated
   
   Although the cold means you may not sweat as much as you might during the warmer months, it is still important to keep yourself hydrated. If you’re out on a crisp morning walk you could take your morning hot drink in a flask to stay warm.  
   
   
   
8. Keep yourself accountable
   
   To make sure you stick to keeping active over winter, buddy up with a friend, family member or colleague. If you prefer to go solo, write down how you are going to be active at the start of each week.
   
   

    

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