Plan a "winter exercise strategy" to avoid injury
30/12/2009 The cold winter months don't mean you have to give up your outdoor activities but people should practice caution, according to one exercise expert.
Tony Breitbach, director of athletic training education at Saint Louis University, has listed his top tips for keeping fit and staying safe when taking part in winter exercise. He recommended devising a "winter exercise strategy" to get you through the colder months.
Ensuring you dress properly for outdoor exercise by staying warm and wearing layers was just one of the recommendations made.
Mr Breitbach said: "A change in weather should bring a change to your mindset. If you plan well, you'll be able to keep up with your routine fairly easily. Being aware of winter's challenges is the best way to avoid injury."
Other advice given included ensuring you are eating and drinking the right things, taking steps to avoid hazards and injury and not over using one form of exercise. He said that people should "think outside the gym" to avoid the strains associated with doing too much of one activity.
Those looking for something a little different this winter could think about investing in a trampoline. They are small enough to be used indoors and stored easily, but still provide the same health benefits as larger outdoor versions.
Tony Breitbach, director of athletic training education at Saint Louis University, has listed his top tips for keeping fit and staying safe when taking part in winter exercise. He recommended devising a "winter exercise strategy" to get you through the colder months.
Ensuring you dress properly for outdoor exercise by staying warm and wearing layers was just one of the recommendations made.
Mr Breitbach said: "A change in weather should bring a change to your mindset. If you plan well, you'll be able to keep up with your routine fairly easily. Being aware of winter's challenges is the best way to avoid injury."
Other advice given included ensuring you are eating and drinking the right things, taking steps to avoid hazards and injury and not over using one form of exercise. He said that people should "think outside the gym" to avoid the strains associated with doing too much of one activity.
Those looking for something a little different this winter could think about investing in a trampoline. They are small enough to be used indoors and stored easily, but still provide the same health benefits as larger outdoor versions.
