We are right in the middle of the coldest part of winter. It is so easy during this time of year to curl up under a blanket and attempt to hibernate all winter. Unfortunately, our bodies are not made to hibernate, and even during the cold we need exercise.
We are supposed to get 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise a week. That works out to about 20 minutes per day. Moderate intensity exercise means that our heart rate raises, to the point where we can still talk, but we wouldn’t be able to sing. But, when it is so cold outside, how can we get in that necessary exercise without breaking the bank?
There are a lot of exercises that we can do in the comfort of our home, using items that you may already have around the house. These include:
Stair stepping: walking up and down the stairs is a great way to get your heart rate up. Make it interesting by going up or down stairs as notes in a song rise or fall. Or, get a chair and place it in front of the tv, step up and down as you are watching your favorite show.
Dancing: while in the kitchen or just as you go through the house turn on some music and just start dancing. Or, make it a dance party with your family.
Cleaning: some of your typical housework, especially vacuuming and mopping, can raise your heart rate, and it counts towards your physical activity!
Jumping Jacks: another thing you can do while watching your favorite movie are jumping jacks, running in place, or lunges. These exercises don’t require much space, but are a great workout.
Weight lifting: exercise isn’t only supposed to be about raising your heart rate. Twice a week we also need to be doing exercises that strengthen our muscles. Buying a set of weights can be expensive, but you don’t need to buy a fancy set of weights. Instead lift things you already have at home. Water bottles (or milk jugs filled with water for more weight), books, or other items make great weights.
Online Workouts: if you need to be led in your exercises, then try searching for workout online. There are a lot of free workouts. Simply go to YouTube and type in ‘workout’, then you can find one that you enjoy.
It is important to find ways to workout – and to find ways that you enjoy. By staying active you will be healthier and happier. What physical activities are you doing this winter?
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