dont stay indoors! boost your fitness with these winter outdoor activities
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Some people may start to feel depressed, distracted, and less efficient at work as soon as winter arrives, as if they are about to hibernate. This seasonal condition is known as 'winter depression.'
The most effective way to combat this low mood is through exercise, especially outdoor activities.
Due to the cold weather in winter, many people choose to stay comfortably at home. However, winter is actually a great time for outdoor activities, which can improve one's ability to withstand the cold. Studies show that those who persist in outdoor exercise during winterhave a cold resistance that is8-12 times stronger than that of the average person.It also enhances the body's immunity, eliminates fatigue, and improves work and study efficiency.
So, what are some suitable outdoor activities for winter?
Jogging
For office workers or those who sit for long periods, regular jogging can speed up metabolism and slow down the aging process of the body's functions. Additionally, it allows you to breathe fresh air outdoors and stay away from computer radiation.
Moreover, since winter can make people feel gloomy, choosing to jog at this time can help reduce depressive feelings and increase vitality. Persisting in outdoor jogging during winter also has advantages in improving physical fitness, allowing the body to adapt better to the cold weather.
Hiking
Hiking is a suitable outdoor activity for all seasons. In winter, you can choose a sunny weekend to go hiking with friends and family. Escape the hustle and bustle of the city, enjoy nature, breathe deeply, and let go of the week's stress and fatigue.
Ice Skating
Ice skating is an excellent full-body exercise, whether on real ice or roller skates. In winter, ice skating can relax your slightly stiff muscles. It's also a physically demanding activity, so you won't feel cold standing on the ice; you'll warm up quickly.
For beginners, it's important not to rush. Ice skating can be dangerous. Make sure to warm up properly before getting on the ice to fully stretch your body. Also, wear safety gear such as gloves, wrist guards, knee pads, and elbow pads.
Skiing
Skiing is arguably the highlight of winter outdoor activities. Many people love winter precisely because they can ski.
Skiing combines exercise and entertainment. It mainly works the leg muscles and requires high balance, improving flexibility, coordination, and almost all joints in the body. Proper coordination of all body parts enhances psychological resilience and adaptability, allowing for various movements.
If you don't know how to ski, click the image below.
China's largest comprehensive snowboarding school
Although there are many benefits to outdoor exercise in winter, there are also many precautions to take.
Winter Outdoor Exercise Precautions
1.Avoid exercising too early
Morning temperatures are low in winter, so it's best to exercise after sunrise. The optimal timeis between2 PM and 7 PM.
2. Keepwarm
Getting cold can lead to muscle cramps, increased fatigue, and lower immunity. Remember to put on a coat after exercising to stay warm. You can also wear gloves and ear protectors.
3.Maintain an appropriate exercise frequency
The frequency of outdoor exercise in winter should be moderate. It's best not to exercise outdoors for long periods every day. Exercising every other day or 3-5 times a week is optimal.
4.Avoid exercising on snowy or smoggy days
The ground or track can be slippery, and the air quality is poor, making it detrimental to your health.
5.Exercise with appropriate intensity
Don't exercise too vigorously in winter. For example, don't start running too fast; maintain a jogging pace. Running too fast can cause discomfort in the respiratory tract due to inhaling too much cold air.
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