Stay active even when it’s cold outside

Temperatures have dropped and the snow has started to fall.

You may be tempted to curl up on the couch to watch tv and the kids may be jumping for their Chromebooks or Nintendo Switches, but we know better!  

Being active is beneficial to both children and adults with their overall health; building strength can help avoid future injuries and being physically fit can reduce healing and recovery time.  Kids need at least 60 minutes of exercise every day and adults need at least 30 minutes per day.   It is important to maintain a regular fitness routine to build endurance, strength, and flexibility.

The fact is that the more you sit, the more physical problems you can develop.  So much of our lives have become virtual, that it is even more important to make an effort in being physically active.  

Make it a part of your routine, incorporate exercise in meaningless tasks and make them fun.  Morning exercise can help kickstart your day, leading to more focus and higher achievement for whatever you set out to accomplish.

MAKE WINTER FITNESS FUN

  1. Turn the radio, or Alexa, volume up and have a dance party!  Add a twist and make it freeze dance where when the music turns off everyone has to freeze in whatever move they are currently doing.

  2. Go for a walk.  Yes, even in the snow walking can be fun.  Strap on some snow shoes or tie up your boots and explore the wintery wonderland right in your own neighbourhood.

  3. Get building.  Whether it’s a snowman or snow fort, the effort it takes to pack the snow and construct your masterpiece will no doubt exert you and your child’s energy.

  4. Indoor aerobics or yoga.  The online options for exercise videos are endless, both free and to purchase.  

  5. Outdoor activities.  From skating to snowball fights and tobogganing.  Whatever gets their bodies moving will only benefit their health.

  6. Fitness bingo.  Download and print, or make your own, bingo card.  Fill in the boxes with different stretches, movements, or actions; the more silly the better.

Teaching your child good exercise habits and practicing them yourself, regardless of the weather outside, provides the opportunity to have a positive attitude and behavior regarding physical fitness.  

Developing and maintaining healthy exercise habits benefits everyone, at all ages.  By integrating physical activity into your daily routine, and teaching our children to do the same, will help us lead a more pain-free lifestyle in the future.  At Mainway Physiotherapy we believe in injury prevention and that starts with getting enough exercise to keep your body fit and healthy.  Our goal is to improve overall physical function and prevent future injury and pain. 

Unsure of where to start? 

Already experiencing discomfort or pain? 

Give us a call at 905-332-3800, or CLICK HERE to book an assessment, we‘d love to help.

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8 Shoveling Techniques to Save Your Back This Winter Season