Have Fun With Winter Outdoor Exercise

Monday, 01 February 2010 10:03

Even though the temperatures outside may not be conducive to a late afternoon or early morning jog, there are still a lot of fun winter activities that can be done outdoors that count as exercise, depending on how hard the work is that you are doing. Doing any strenuous work (especially while bundled up in a big winter coat, hat, and mittens) outside in the cold weather will definitely make you sweat. Just make sure that your doctor has approved you for exercise if you are a bariatric patient and are post-surgery (post-op). The following are some great ideas for exercise that serves a many purposes-- burning calories, getting things done around the house, and having fun!

On a final note, if temperatures are extremely below freezing and there is a cold weather advisory, do not spend large amounts of time outside-- you may get frostbite.

Shovel Snow/Scrape Car

This is a necessary action for many people who do not keep their cars in a garage or parking structure overnight. Using an ice scraper is great for working the triceps in the arms because of the reach and effort it takes to get all the ice and snow off of the windows. For a harder workout, head outside earlier than normal so you can manually scrape off the car instead of using de-icer spray. This also will give your car some time to warm up, which may help it run better in the cold weather.

Make sure you wear gloves or mittens and waterproof outer-clothing when scraping your car off. You don't want to get your clothing wet!

Skiing/Snowboarding

Going skiing and snowboarding can be a fun winter vacation or weekend getaway. This is a good exercise option for bariatric patients who have skied or snowboarded before, or have been post-op for a while and would like to learn. Since skiing and snowboarding are two of the most strenuous items on this list, make sure to ask your doctor before booking a trip to the slopes.

Sledding

Sledding is another strenuous activity that you may need to ask your doctor about if you are still obese or are a post-op lap-band or other weight loss surgery patient. Sledding is fun exercise that can be done with your children and/or significant other. There are usually nice sledding hills in public parks-- call your local parks and recreation department or online for suggestions from other families in the area.

Walking with Snowshoes

If you live out in a rural area, walking with snowshoes can be a fun activity to do by yourself or with your family. Simply trekking to the mailbox or from the edge of a forest and back can burn 100 calories or more, depending on your effort level, weight, and time spent.

Building a Snowman

Finally, building a snowman with your family can be a fun way to spend time together and become closer. Rolling the snow into three balls for the body and head can be hard work! Make sure the snow is able to stick together and packs well. If you have enough time, increase your calories burned by building a 'snow family'- a mother, a father, and a son. Get some sticks, a hat, old scarves, and buttons, rocks, or coal for eyes, nose, and a mouth.