Baby, It’s Cold Outside…But You Can Stay Fit Anyway

As temperatures fall, so do most people’s activity level. That hunkering-down-for-winter mentality isn’t helping your health (or your sanity). Rachael Mergenmeier, DO, family practice physician at in Creve Coeur, offers these tips for staying fit, healthy and safe during the coldest months of the year. 
 

1. Start by eating well, getting enough sleep and staying hydrated. This is especially important as the holidays approach and the temptation of late-night entertaining and unhealthy goodies smacks you in the face
2. If the cold is a major de-motivator for you, don’t fight it. Move your fitness routine indoors. That can mean joining a fitness center, taking a class or buying a DVD. The bonus is getting to try something new. 
3. If you do continue an outdoor exercise regimen, remember to dress for it with layers of clothing, especially a “dri fit” layer next to your skin. You can shed the layers as you go. 
4. Move your routine to a different time. The days are shorter during winter, so switching up your schedule may help you follow through on your exercise regimen.
5. Try an indoor sport. Look for rec leagues that offer volleyball, basketball or racquetball. It’s great exercise, and you’ll also benefit from the socialization. 

 
Remember to take caution when exercising to avoid over-exertion and injury, especially during the winter months when it’s easy to become dehydrated during a workout and when you’re more at risk for a fall outside