This time of year, the only thing falling faster than the leaves is the temperature. Resist the urge to hibernate all winter — doing so can lead to a decrease in energy and add unwanted pounds.

Working out indoors doesn’t need to be your only option. Here are a few tips to aid in the seasonal transition:

• Check in with your doctor.
  If you’ve never exercised outside in cold weather, check with your doctor about any preventative measures you might need based on medications you are taking or conditions you may have (such as asthma or heart problems). Explore our database of Edward-Elmhurst Medical Group doctors.
  
  
• Get the local weather forecast.
  Make sure you are aware of the current weather conditions before heading out. Consider the time of day, length of time outside, conditions and temperature. Keep your phone handy and make sure you have access to water.
  
  
• Dress accordingly.
  Whether exercising inside or out, dress in layers to allow for temperature differentiation. If outside, wear a hat and gloves to keep body heat regulated and wear shoes that will get you where you want to go effectively and safely.
  
  
• Try something new.
  Winter is the perfect time to try a new class or format — tai chi, yoga, racquetball or Zumba will add a twist to your workout. Hire a personal trainer to get a fresh perspective on your workout and stay up to date with the newest equipment and exercises. Learn simple cardio exercises to try from home.
  
  
• Support your warm-weather activities.
  Post-/off-season workouts should focus on physical and mental re-conditioning, improving muscular imbalances and re-establishing range of motion. These sessions should gradually lead you into your pre-season routine while maximizing injury prevention and performance gains without overtraining.
  
  
• Winter activities can burn a lot of calories, too.
  Hiking, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, downhill skiing, ice skating, hockey and football can all burn anywhere from 400 – 800+ calories per hour (depending on your fitness and intensity level). Whether you participate in one of these activities or have a snowball fight with the kids, get out there and have some fun this winter!

Drive your health forward at Edward-Elmhurst Health & Fitness Centers.