Get Healthy Carson City: Stay active in the winter

The weather outside is frightful, but with a little preparation, you can still find delight in spending time outdoors. Active commuting, like walking and biking, is a great way to stay in shape through the winter. Getting around on foot or on two wheels is also a great way to experience Carson City. While the idea of stepping out in the cold may be daunting for some, these tips can help you get out and about while keeping you comfortable.
Perhaps the most obvious key to success for winter walking and biking is dressing appropriately, but you might be surprised what works best. The right windproof, thermal, and waterproof gear can keep you dry and warm regardless of the weather. However, resist the temptation to bundle too heavily. When you are moving, your body generates heat, and wearing too much heavy clothing can cause you to sweat and become chilled. If you wear too much, you end up all sweaty by the time you get to work, but if you do not wear enough, you spend all morning trying to warm up. The only way to really get your gear dialed in is to start using it. You will quickly figure out what works and what does not, and from there you can make adjustments. Dress in layers so you can adjust your attire to stay comfortable.
Be sure to also choose the proper footwear for warmth and safety. A waterproof boot is a good choice for winter walking. To keep from slipping on the snow and ice, invest in traction devices that go over the soles of boots or shoes to add extra grip. These are inexpensive ways to avoid a potentially painful fall. For people who bike, neoprene toe covers can keep feet from being cold on your commute and swapping your road bike for one with wider or studded tires can help improve travel through winter conditions.
Do not let darkness stop you from getting out. Even though it gets dark early in the winter, reflective clothing and lights improve visibility and make it possible to walk or bike year-round. Affordable, bright LED lights can be commonly found in many stores and are small enough to carry everywhere. Having lights with you at all times also helps to alleviate any concerns that you will get caught in the dark during shorter winter days.
Getting exercise during the winter months is vital to keeping spirits up. There are many other activities you can do in the winter besides walking and biking, including snow skiing, dancing, and swimming at the indoor pool, to name a few. It is best to find activities you enjoy doing in every season to help you stay healthy all year!
For additional resources and information about healthy decisions or programs and services offered by Carson City Health and Human Services, check out our website at www.gethealthycarsoncity.org, follow us on Twitter @CCHealthEd, “Like” us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/cchhs, follow us Instagram @gethealthycarsoncity, call us at 775-887-2190, or visit us at 900 E. Long St., Carson City.