Exercise in winter to keep warm

Alas, the winter will soon be upon us, and our thoughts will turn to keeping warm. Of course, it’s important to wear the right clothing for the season, and this is especially important when you brave the outside. Don’t forget your thermal Damart socks and gloves! But there is one excellent way to keep warm (no, NOT what you’re thinking), and that is to take plenty of exercise.

When the weather is cold, it is tempting to stay indoors and huddle by the radiator for the next six months, while dreaming of escape to foreign shores. This won’t do your health any good, though. Even in the UK, there are some crisp, sunny winter days, and you should take advantage of them. Slip on those fur-lined boots, pull on a warm Damart hat, and get out in the fresh air!

One of the best forms of exercise is cycling (not much fun on rainy days, admittedly, and possibly a bit dangerous in the snow), but since it doesn’t rain quite as much in the UK as other nations seem to think, that bike can still get a lot of use. When the weather forecast permits, why not cycle to work? (Admittedly, not to be recommended if your journey to work involves a one hour drive on the motorway …) You will arrive at work (or home) having generated enough heat to store for later, like a solar panel.

Walking is another good, healthy method of exercise, and is absolutely free. Make sure your footwear has sturdy, non-slippery soles, as it will certainly be warm in A & E if you fall over, but I can say from personal experience that this is not to be recommended (ouch), and is probable only for those truly desperate to stay warm. Resist the temptation to get the car out for short journeys (which is wasteful of fuel), and walk to the shops or to pick the kids up from school.

Should there be a decent amount of snow, get out in the garden or off to the park, and play with the kids. A good snowball fight will warm everyone up and the youngsters will love running around in the snow. Walking the dog, if you have one (if not, why not volunteer at your local shelter as a dog-walker) is a twice-daily necessity that the dog will love, and will be great exercise for you as well.