Baby, it’s cold outside. 
And if you are like me, it’s hard to stay active once these frosty temperatures set in. It’s not quite winter enough to bundle up and enjoy skiing or sledding. But it’s way too cold and dark for an after-work jog (too cold for me anyway!)
But, as we learned from a recent Sunnyview video, cold temperature can lead to high blood pressure, thanks in part to our tendency to slow things down during the hibernating months. It’s also not good for our bones and joints (or overall well-being!) if we let ourselves get too idle during the winter.
Thanks to Holland Centre physiotherapist Andrea Bean, here are 4 ways to keep up our daily activity until our bodies get used to the cold or there’s enough snow to hit the slopes.
1. Commercial break
Cozied up with a hot chocolate and your TV remote control? Don’t just sit there: do some mini squats (sit to stand) during the commercial breaks of your favourite TV shows. How many can you do during each break? Challenge yourself. (Sometimes I turn on my favourite song and dance around to get the blood flowing during commercials!)
2. Take the stairs
Pass on the elevator and try the stairs whether at work, home or out shopping. Taking the stairs a great cardio workout and good for your lower body strength.
3. Brisk walk, indoors or out
Bundle up and wear proper footwear with good treads if you brave the cooler temps for a lunchtime walk. Or, visit your local mall (early, before the shoppers arrive!) If you choose the outdoors, here are some tips for walking safely in icy conditions!
4. Check out the community centre
Most cities have lots of great programming at the community centres (swimming, aerobics, weights). They are usually quite inexpensive, and it’s a great way to stay fit and meet new people with similar interests. Here’s a list of community centres in Toronto.
Enjoy! (And stay warm!)
