(StatePoint) There’s no need to resign yourself to the gym all winter long. Outdoor adventures are the perfect way to stay fit and have fun, even during the chilliest months of the year.
All it takes to stay comfortable is the right gear and a bit of preparation. With that in mind, check out these tips for a great season.
• Get an Early Start: Remember that winter means early sunsets. So, get your journey started early in the morning to take advantage of the limited sunlight. Plan your hike or other outdoor adventure carefully, knowing how long you expect it to take and be sure your pack includes a flashlight or headlamp. In the event you are still on the trail as the sun sets, you’ll be happy you did.
• Stretch: Before getting started, be sure to give your muscles time to warm up. To avoid injury, it is always important to do a dynamic stretch workout before embarking on a workout, but it becomes especially important in cold weather.
• Stay Informed: High-quality wearable tech is crucial for today’s outdoor enthusiast. Seek out a durable watch specifically designed to help you make the most of outdoor sports. The WSD-F20AGN from Casio, boasts a variety of popular outdoors and sports apps, including ViewRanger, Hole19, Ski Tracks, and more. Additional features include water resistance up to 50 meters, a digital compass, altimeter, barometer and an activity tracker. And with Wear OS by Google technology, you can use your timepiece to learn about your surroundings and support you in the things you want to do, for a safer, more connected journey.
• Cover Up: You may be working up heat but you’ll still want to keep your head, fingers and toes well-protected in cold weather temperatures. These are the areas of the body most vulnerable to frost bite. Select socks, gloves and a hat specifically designed for sports that offers moisture wicking, comfort and warmth. Be aware of the signs of frostbite and take care to get indoors at the earliest sign.
This winter, don’t shy away from the great outdoors. A little preparation can help you make the most of an outdoor adventure.
Photo Credit: (c) EVERST / stock.Adobe.com