As the days get colder and darker, it may be tempting to stay snuggled up on the couch, sipping on hot coffee, instead of going for your daily run. Resisting the urge to skip your outdoor exercise during winter will help you stay in good shape and contribute to your overall wellbeing.

In our last blog we explained why it is beneficial to exercise in winter. Here are a few tips to help you brave the cold outdoors when exercising.

1. Layer up!

When exercising outdoors, make sure to wear many layers to stay warm, but are easy to remove as your body heats up.

2. Proper skin care

Staying hydrated and practicing proper skin care is very important when taking part in outdoor winter activities. Your skin is at risk of drying out during your exercise outdoors, so make sure to wear a layer of moisturiser or Vaseline to help protect it.

3. Alternate with indoor activities

If its extra cold today, and you just can’t bear the thought of facing the frosty wind, find an alternative indoor exercise that you can do.

4. Remember to warm up and stretch!

Before stepping outside into the cold, make sure to do a warm up inside to get your blood flowing and to generate some warmth.

5. Catch the daylight

Try and keep your training to morning or noon. This way, you can seize the warmest time of the winter day, as well as get a healthy dose of Vitamin D

6. Wear bright colours

In winter the days tend to be darker and foggier. Make sure to wear bright clothes so that people can spot you on the road.

Don’t let low temperatures keep you from being active. Working out in the cold weather can still be fun and useful!