Newswise — If getting into shape is on your New Year's resolution list, but you're not interested in navigating jam-packed gyms, the answer is simple: take your exercise regime out of the gym and into the great outdoors.
"A common misconception is that you have to stop your outdoor exercise in cold winter weather," said Karin Richards, director of the Fitness and Health Management Program and the Health Sciences Program at University of the Sciences in Philadelphia. "While exercising in the cold may take some getting used to, with the right precautions and preparation, it can be a great boredom buster."
To be sure you're safely working toward your goals and getting the most out of your outdoor exercise this winter, Professor Richards has provided the following tips: "¢ Warm up before: As with any physical activity, it is important to take time to warm up before exercising. While a typical warm up lasts five-to-10 minutes, when exercising in cold weather, a proper warm up should be stretched to last at least 20 minutes. "¢ Dress Appropriately I: Dressing appropriately for the weather is especially important, as our bodies lose heat quicker when we're cold and up to 25 times quicker when we're wet. Exercisers are encouraged to wear a scarf to protect the mouth and throat, a hat to hold in body heat, sunglasses if it's sunny and especially when it's snowy to protect from glare, and gloves or mittens. "¢ Dress Appropriately II: Additionally, there are three essential layers that should be worn on the body: The first is a wicking layer, such as dry fit material or polyester, which rests again bare skin and draws away moisture. The second is an insulating layer, usually made of cotton. The third layer is a shield against elements such as wind, rain, and snow, and is usually a repellant jacket that will keep the body dry. "¢ Stretch after: It is crucial to stretch after exercising outside, and to hold each stretch for a minimum of 30 seconds. While it is also fine to stretch before exercising outside, you should never stretch cold muscles. Instead, stretch after a 20-minute warm up, when blood has had a chance to get to the muscles and warm them. "¢ Stay hydrated: When you're outside breathing in cold air, your body dehydrates much quicker than normal. To counteract the potential for dehydration, it is essential to drink more water.
Before heading out the door for a workout, there are several environmental factors to consider.
"Aside from the temperature, you need to think about wind chill, as this has the power to decrease the temperature a great amount," said Richards. "Many people don't think about it, but when that wind chill hits your bare skin, it can be very painful. Also, the days are much shorter in the winter, so a 5 p.m. run will likely be much darker than what you're used to and may require the use of reflective gear."
If escaping from the gym isn't enough of a motivator to exercise outdoors, the fresh air and vitamin D from the sun can help improve your mood and relieve stress. Additionally, you'll generally get a greater workout outside, pounding the pavement and rugged terrain, than you will on a treadmill.
"Don't be afraid to exercise outdoors in the winter," said Richards. "Try it out. It beats being inside all winter long and now you have the tools and know-how to journey outside and exercise safely."
At University of the Sciences in Philadelphia, students embark on a challenging learning experience in a proving ground for successful professionals in the healthcare-related fields. A private, coeducational institution dedicated to education, research, and service, and distinguished as the nation's first college of pharmacy, the University has produced leaders in the healthcare marketplace since its founding in 1821, including founders of six of the top pharmaceutical companies in the world. With undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral degree programs in such disciplines as pharmacy, bioinformatics, physical therapy, healthcare business, and health policy, the 3,000 students in the University of the Sciences' five colleges learn to excel in scientific analysis and to apply their skills to improving healthcare in their communities and in the lives of people worldwide.
" www.usp.edu "
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