5 Ways to Stay Active During the Winter Months

With cold temperatures, slippery roads and sidewalks, and fewer hours of daylight, staying active during the winter months can be a challenge. The many benefits of physical activity, however, including improved mental and physical health, better sleep quality, and reduced anxiety, make it worth the effort. Regular physical activity also helps improve balance, reduces the risk of type 2 diabetes and many types of cancer, and helps keep your mind sharp as you age. Here are 5 ways to stay active during the winter months:

1. Monitor the weather, plan ahead, and wear layers for outdoor activities. If weather permits, take nature walks in a park or neighborhood. You can walk at any pace that is comfortable for you, and you can even roll yourself in a wheelchair. Be sure to go with a friend for safety.

2. Visit a mall and walk it end to end. Most malls open before the stores do, offering a quiet and non-crowded space so you can walk at a fast or slow pace without bothering anyone.

3. Work out at home with online or television classes. Cable television offers a variety of channels with numerous opportunities to follow yoga, Pilates, stretching, dance, aerobics, and other fitness classes. You can also participate in classes online, via Zoom, or on Instagram.

4. Do chores at home. Housework helps keep you active; vacuuming, sweeping, cleaning bathrooms, dusting, and other chores count towards your physical activity goals. Going up and down stairs offers a great workout as well.

5. Volunteer while maintaining social distance. Help others while you’re helping yourself by looking for local volunteer opportunities that involve physical activity. Newton Village is welcoming volunteers!

Try to get 150 minutes of physical activity each week. You can break it up however works best for you - one goal is to try for 30 minutes a day, 5 days a week.

Newton Village

110 N. 5th Avenue W

Newton, Iowa 50208

Ph: 641-792-0115

www.newtonvillage.org