Exercising With a Friend

Did you know that exercising with others can help you meet your health goals?

Don’t do it alone. Exercising with others helps you stay motivated and consistent. Join an activity like a walking group where you can participate at your own fitness level and pace. Lunchtime activities like Walk to Wellness will start you on the right path to fitness. The walks in scenic Park could make your workout fun and energizing. It’s also a chance to form friendships in a shared activity that you can enjoy weekly. Having a regularly scheduled exercise time is an excellent way of making sure you exercise on a consistent basis.

Core Strength

While cardiovascular activity is essential to good health, muscle strength is important too.  The core muscles around your trunk and pelvis help your lower back, hips and abdominal muscles work together to increase balance and stability. Having strong core muscles can reduce lower back pain and make everyday activities easier, including your comfort level while working at your desk. 

Cater to your core muscles this week with some strengthening activities. Many can be done at home without any special equipment. Be sure to use proper posture to reap the most benefits.

Exercising Outdoors

Exercise Clothing for the Winter Months:

When the weather changes and cold air begins to set in, it can become an obstacle to those who prefer to exercise outdoors. Lower temperatures and harsher weather conditions don’t have to stop you from the activities you enjoy.
Having the appropriate clothing is an essential component exercising outdoors safely. Dressing in layers, with a base, mid, and outer layer, is the best way to dress for the cold. This gives you the option to remove outer layers when you begin to feel warm and to add them back on as you cool down. 
When choosing your cold weather clothing, don’t forget to protect your hands, feet, and ears; which can become vulnerable to frostbite. The layering method applies to your extremities as well.  Try wearing a thin pair of gloves beneath heavier gloves or mittens so that you can remove and replace the outer layer as needed.  Also, consider getting shoes about a ½ size larger that you normally wear to accommodate for either heavier wool socks or two pairs of regular socks.  A hat or headband is a great way to keep your ears warm as you exercise.