Karen Baltz Gibbs, Physical Therapist, Personal Trainer, Garage Training & Rehab Gym
"There's no such thing as bad weather, only bad clothes!"
is one of my favorite quotes in the book "There's No Such Thing As Bad Weather" by Linda Akeson McGurk. She spoke of the Scandinavian culture's focus on getting children outside year-round and filled with the joy of living. I think we miss out on a lot of joy as most would rather stay indoors due to the weather. It is evident in the onset of seasonal depression and anxiety disorders. The question remains, how do I exercise during the winter months?
Number one:
Borrow, rent, or buy warm clothes and go somewhere to play in the snow. A child doesn't usually need to be told what to do when they step out into the snow. For adults, playing in the snow can come in many forms. It may be too far to get to snow, so it may be rain or just getting out in colder temperatures. So, dress warm and go for a walk. Where I live, it snows at least once a year. We go sledding in the park or local golf course. We can also drive a few hours up into the mountains, where we have access to sledding, snowshoeing, snowboarding, or skiing.
Number two:
Many people go to stores and malls to do their holiday shopping. Depending on your shopping strategy, you may be doing some lifting but for certain, you are walking. There are also sometimes walking groups that meet at the malls.
Number three:
Take the stairs wherever you go. Many people avoid the stairs and take the elevators. Yes, some people cannot walk up and down stairs for various medical reasons and they need to find another mode of exercise but for those who are able, take the stairs at every opportunity.
Number four:
Do a strength training routine in your home! Some hospital systems have online videos for chair exercises. You can do a bodyweight (no equipment needed) exercise routine like squats, lunges, various levels of push-ups, chair dips, the list goes on. You can have minimal equipment like resistance bands and dumbbells. You can have an in-home or garage gym! This is where I can instruct you on the proper routine for you. I'm here to support you and keep you accountable.
Call or email to start finding joy in exercise during the winter.
Phone: 971-719-3162
E-mail: garagetrainingrehabgym@gmail.com
#Live Inspired,
Karen Baltz Gibbs, PT, DPT, CSCS, CMP, LMT
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