To overwinter actively – snow and low temperatures do not have to mean a lack of movement [sponsored]

Low temperatures, the chill penetrating to the marrow of your bones, cold winds, falling snow or icy surfaces – these factors can foster sluggishness and a definite aversion to physical activity in winter. But maybe it is worth not giving in to this trend and try to spend the winter time actively, taking care of yourself and preparing for the summer season. Physical activity in winter has many advantages that we often forget about during the dark and short winter days. Time for a change you certainly won’t regret!

Physical activity in winter has many benefits that we often forget about during the dark and short winter days. Time for a change you definitely won’t regret! (photo. partner materials / 4F.com.en)

Why we’re getting fat in the winter?

Why, in fact, every year for several months, humans fall into winter immobility? This mechanism is undoubtedly related to its development as a species. Humans are warm-blooded creatures – the human body temperature is relatively constant and independent of external factors. Winter has always been the most dangerous period when human health and life are threatened by atmospheric factors. So he gathered food in advance, so that in winter he could take shelter and wait out this unfavorable period. It is also a fact that the intake of calories warms up the body, which largely explains the consumption of more food in winter. The temperature outside drops, so the human body demands to replenish energy deficiencies.

Advantages of physical activity in winter

Movement in winter, especially outdoors, has many benefits. First of all, thanks to it, we oxygenate the body. In addition, by practicing physical activity, which naturally regulates blood pressure, we reduce the risk of heart disease. Above all, however, training in winter strengthens immunity, hardens the body and has a positive effect on our well-being. Physical activity causes the body to produce endorphins, or happiness hormones. In addition, it positively affects the production of leukocytes, or white blood cells, which are responsible for the immune system in our body. See in the graphic below why you should do physical activity in winter.

Training in winter – types of activities

Now that we know where the frequent reluctance to play sports in winter comes from, and why it is nevertheless worthwhile to stay active through the winter, let’s consider what sports we can choose from. Before we mention indoor sports that can be practiced all year round, let’s focus on outdoor sports Sports that can be practiced in winter.

Skiing

One of several sports that is obviously associated with winter is skiing. Those willing can choose between downhill or cross-country skiing. Both varieties are a great aerobic workout for the whole body. Skiing improves blood circulation and fitness, and helps burn unnecessary body fat. Contrary to appearances, this sport engages many parts of the muscles – from the thighs, abdominal and back muscles to the upper body. Downhill skiing will be a great choice for speed lovers, while cross-country skiing will be a great choice for those who prefer less extreme sports and like to combine intense movement with movement. Finally, skiing is a great winter sport for children – Its learning can begin as early as the age of 3. In addition to skis, boots and ski poles, be sure to get the right ski apparel, which you can buy from the store www.4F.en!

Snowboarding

Among winter sports, snowboarding reigns supreme alongside skiing. Again, we have the opportunity to strengthen our body and oxygenate ourselves in beautiful natural circumstances – after all, at least a few hours are usually spent on the slopes. Although many winter sports enthusiasts will say that skiing is more difficult than boarding, it must be admitted that snowboarding requires a greater sense of balance and the ability to balance the body. If you want to match your board with snowboarding clothing, you can choose from a variety of available models of pants, jackets and overalls to ensure comfort on the slopes.

Skating

It’s a great choice for those who enjoy the speed and rush of the frosty air, but don’t always have time for longer trips to the slopes. It is a relatively inexpensive sport, and ice rinks in the winter season are available in all major towns and cities. Skating is also another of the many winter activities for children. Skates, appropriate clothing and pads will be necessary – the ice rink surface is generally much harder than the slope surface. Like skiing and snowboarding, skating is also a great way to get active with friends!

Running

The sport is one of the easily accessible, but also intense physical activities. After all, to go for a run, all we need is the right footwear and comfortable clothing. Regular practice of this sport will bring strengthening of the whole body and improvement of cardiorespiratory fitness. Running, despite the low temperatures, will allow you to achieve better and better results and enter the summer season properly prepared and in good shape. You can read more about running in winter in an earlier article.

Walking in the mountains

Mountain hiking can be practiced not only in spring and summer – in the winter season it takes on a different dimension. Difficulties posed by walking in the mountains in winter can be quickly overcome, and when this is done, you may find that this sport practiced in winter will give you more satisfaction than in the summer season. The mountains, after all, are never as rugged and majestic than in winter! However, if we plan to hike for longer than a day, we should not forget to properly prepare our equipment and secure ourselves in case of an unforeseen change in weather conditions.

Cycling

If we don’t have time for recreational bike rides, a great idea to increase our physical activity is to replace the car with a bicycle, if possible. Even a short bike ride from home to work is a body-stimulating activity that will have a positive effect on fitness and overall strength in the long run. Besides, it also saves money (fuel) and time (traffic jams)! Enthusiasts of this sport should know that it is enough to equip yourself with tires with special tread and appropriate outdoor clothing, and winter cycling can also be done in the countryside!

Check the effect on the body of the various outdoor activities in winter:

Indoor activity

In addition to a variety of outdoor sports, a whole range of indoor physical activities are also available. We can devote ourselves to them in winter without fear of low temperatures, snow or other adverse weather conditions. These can be m.in. The gym and all varieties of fitness classes, such as aerobics, step, crossfit, pilates or spinning, for example. You should also consider signing up for regular yoga classes, which will take care of your body’s flexibility, but also help reduce stress. Climbing and swimming are other activities that we can do in winter in specially designated places – on an artificial climbing wall and at a swimming pool. These are sports that engage the largest number of muscles in the human body!

How to dress for training in winter?

When practicing winter sports The key is to choose the right clothing. It is important to remember not to dress too warmly, especially when exercising intensely, as in the case of running or skating. Layered clothing will be ideal, which involves wearing several properly selected layers of clothing, each of which has a specific function:

• first layer – thermal underwear; wicks away moisture, maintains body temperature
• second layer – fleece or knit sweatshirt; reheats and retains the heat generated by the body during exercise
• top layer – soft shell or other jacket; protects against external factors such as wind and moisture

You should also remember to wear a hat to cover your head and ears. Consider equipping yourself with a cap lined with an extra layer that keeps out the wind. In addition to a hat, gloves should be an essential piece of equipment for all winter sports.

Safety most important!

The desire to stay in shape in any sport should not overshadow the what, besides satisfaction and fun, is most important – safety. So remember, in addition to putting on protectors, when skiing, snowboarding or skating, to wear a helmet on your head in addition to a cap, and when climbing on an artificial climbing wall, to carefully check the belay knots. Winter is also an increased heating season, which clearly has an impact on air quality, especially in larger cities. So it’s worth equipping yourself with an anti-smog mask, which you can use on days when the air you breathe is of the worst quality. We encourage you to learn more about the dangers of winter outdoor sports and how to avoid them.

Winter not so bad

Winter months need not at all be associated with lack of exercise and passive waiting for spring and summer. It is worth planning this time actively and take advantage of the many opportunities that this time of year brings. This is also a suitable opportunity to organize your children’s active winter holidays and take on new challenges together. It’s not worth lazing in front of the TV. Nothing will improve our well-being more effectively than a little movement in the fresh winter air. So get to it!