5 Ways to Safely Stay Active During the Winter

When the weather gets cold, staying indoors and curling up under a blanket can become tempting. Snowy and icy conditions can pose safety concerns when driving to a fitness class or going for a walk, and the freezing temperatures can make anyone lose motivation to get active.

However, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), adults over the age of 65 should try to get about 150 hours a week of physical activity – and that includes during the winter months!

So how can you keep yourself active and promote healthy aging during the winter? The Woodlands at Canterfield is here to help! Our brand-new luxury senior living community prioritizes safe, active living. We want everyone to stay safe this winter as they continue their active lifestyles, so we’re sharing five tips for staying active during the colder months!

Note: Speak with your doctor before starting or changing your exercise regimen.

1. Virtual Fitness Classes

Thanks to the internet, tons of healthy aging resources are available at your fingertips! One of the most convenient options is virtual fitness classes. YouTube is a great place to start. Many workout influencers and experts host their own channels with free videos, playlists and guides to starting an at-home fitness routine.

2. Set Up a Home Gym

If you have any extra space in your home, whether it’s a spare room or an empty corner of your living room, consider purchasing a few small equipment pieces to create your own “home gym.” 

This doesn’t mean you have to purchase a bulky treadmill or elliptical. Although, there are some great, inexpensive options available that won’t take up too much of your space or break the bank. For instance, you can find mini-steppers, foldable treadmills and even “chair cycles” to use while sitting down and watching your favorite TV show.

But to start even simpler, consider getting:

• Resistance Bands: These rubber loops are excellent for strength training and improving flexibility. They come in a variety of materials and resistance levels to accommodate various skill sets and fitness goals.
• Weights: A small set of dumbbells is the perfect way to elevate any workout, no matter how heavy or light.
• Yoga Mat: Yoga mats are great for at-home yoga routines or Tai Chi and promote safety by reducing the risk of slipping, especially on hardwood floors.

3. Invite Friends to Stay Motivated

Once you’ve gotten your equipment together and found your new favorite YouTube fitness channel, invite your friends to come by and work out with you! This is a great way to stay motivated with your workouts while staying social and having fun. 

Motivation is also key in reaping the most benefits from any form of exercise. By forming your own group and sticking to a schedule, you’ll all be able to push each other (and yourselves!) a step further.

4. Get Your Steps In – Inside!

An easy way to ensure you’re getting your daily activity is to use the most convenient tool available to you – your living space. Try giving yourself a goal for the number of steps you take each day. The recommended number for older adults is about 7,000 daily steps, but you can start small by picking a number that matches your comfort and ability level. 

Use your smartphone’s Health app or a FitBit to track your steps each day. If you feel like you’ve been sitting down or staying still for too long, try walking up and down the stairs a few times or around different rooms in your home. 

5. Embrace the Winter Weather (Safely!)

Sometimes, cabin fever gets the best of us, especially during the winter. If this is the case, it’s perfectly fine to go outside, but be mindful of any weather conditions that could cause hazards, such as heavy snow or icy walkways. 

Staying active is a crucial part of healthy aging, and it’s important that you make sure you’re getting enough activity during the winter. By following these tips, getting creative and discovering new ways to keep your body moving, you’ll be able to create your own unique fitness routine for many winters to come!

At The Woodlands at Canterfield, we offer several opportunities for residents to enhance their quality of life and focus on their physical and mental wellness. Discover luxury senior living and our unique approach to active living by visiting our website.