Tips for Winter Walking
By Sara Butler
Walking is great exercise all year long, but walking outdoors in the winter presents a few challenges. In fact, exercising outside at some points in the winter can be downright dangerous. Have no fear! There are some simple precautions you can take when you're outside to make your workout session safer. Here are a few winter walking tips to help you avoid injury.
Choose Your Footwear Wisely
There are some really great options for outdoor winter footwear. Find what is most comfortable for you to walk in and make sure it has:
- Good cushioning
- Good arch support
- Non-slip tread
- Rubber soles
These shoes should be able to get you around safely, even with a bunch of snow and ice on the ground.
Make a Plan
Make sure you have enough time to exercise. If you get in a rush and try to squeeze in a walk between getting home from work and dinner or when you get up in the morning, then being in a rush can increase your chances of getting hurt. Don't rush!
Get Rid of Distractions
There's some debate about whether your smartphone is a good item to have on your person during a workout because of the distraction it presents. When the weather outside is less than ideal it may be a good idea not to walk and scroll through your social media accounts as you walk.
Keep Your Eye Out
It's important to look for ice and avoid any patches when you can. If you're not sure there's a patch of ice or not, then simply assume every wet or dark patch on the pavement is, in fact, ice. It's slippery out, which means you must err on the side of caution!
Get Some Support
You should avoid carrying anything when you're out walking in the winter. This can throw off your balance and increase your risk of falling. The best way to maintain balance and to get the most out of your walk for your fitness level is to swing your arms at your sides. Keep your hands out of your pockets. If your hands are cold, then you should invest in a nice pair of gloves or mittens to keep them toasty.
If you can get outside and exercise in the winter, then that's a great thing to do. It gets you some much-needed sunlight to help chase away the winter blues. But if the weather is too bad, have a backup plan to walk on an indoor track or treadmill. Don't take unnecessary risks if the weather outside is dangerous.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Shiloh, Ill.