Ways to Stay Active in Winter

Sledding, climbing stairs -- even house-cleaning -- are great pursuits that burn calories, dietary experts say

By Mary Elizabeth Dallas

Saturday, January 28, 2017

SATURDAY, Jan. 28, 2017 (HealthDay News) -- Adults should get at least 30 minutes of physical activity each day -- even in the depths of winter, a leading group of dietary and nutrition professionals advises.

And children should get at least an hour of daily exercise, whatever the weather, the experts at the American Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics added.

If the ground is covered in ice or snow, however, outdoor activities like jogging or biking can be difficult, or even dangerous.

But cold weather isn't an excuse for inactivity, the academy said in a news release. There are several ways families can stay active throughout the year.

The group recommends the following workouts that can been done indoors:

If it's too cold outside, try walking in the local mall.
Avoid the elevator and escalators, and opt for the stairs instead.
Walk the hallways of your office building during your lunch hour or a coffee break.
Start spring cleaning a bit early. Vacuuming, cleaning closets and washing windows can help you stay active indoors.
Rather than curling up on the sofa and watching a movie, follow an exercise video or DVD.

Outdoor winter fun can also burn calories. Bundle up, head outside and enjoy the following physical activities:

Have a snowball fight.
Go ice skating.
Sled downhill and climb back up a few times.
Make snow angels in the yard.

SOURCE: American Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, news release

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