How to Stay Active in Inclement Weather

During the warmer months it is easy to fit outdoor exercise into your daily routine. As the cold months set in, people may prefer to stay indoors rather than go outside. Discover easy ways to stay active and healthy in inclement weather when you have diabetes.

Summertime includes plenty of exercise such as swimming in the pool, playing volleyball at the beach and walking around the neighborhood. As the cold weather arrives, our schedules are filled with activities for life, school and holidays. The chill and precipitation outdoors may make us decide to stay inside. It remains essential to exercise at least five days a week for a minimum of 30 minutes. Fortunately, there are many ways to fit exercise into your routine.
If you have trouble getting motivated, consider working with an exercise specialist to design a program that suits your health and lifestyle. A trainer can show you various ways to exercise and help you achieve your goals. Always consult with your regular doctor to determine what exercise program is best for you before getting started.
You don’t have to invest a lot of money to include physical activity into your day. Get a few workout DVDs and play a different one each day to mix up your routine. Call a friend and walk around at the local mall while you do some window shopping. Wear a pedometer to gauge your progress. Exercising with a partner can help you stay motivated. Certain gyms offer membership discounts when you join with a friend. Some senior health insurance programs allow fitness memberships called ‘Silver Sneakers’.
Another option is to setup a gym in your house or garage. If you like biking in the nice weather, consider a stationary bike for cold days when you can’t get out. Other choices could include a treadmill, glider or resistance gym. For those with limited space, certain exercise equipment can be folded up after use. If your office has a gym, make plans to exercise with a co-worker during your free time including part of your lunch hour. Some community complexes and apartment buildings also offer an on-site gym.
There are plenty of simple ways to get exercise during your regular routine. Park farther away from the office or store so you need to walk a longer distance. Use the stairs instead of the elevator. If you take public transportation, get off a few stops sooner. Do your own raking in the fall and shoveling in the winter. Do stretching exercises at your desk at work. Little changes can add up to a lot of extra exercise in your day.
Many community centers including the “Y’, public schools and libraries offer free or low-cost exercise classes. Choose a location close to your home or office so you can make it in inclement weather. Try different types of exercise to increase interest. Take yoga classes, aerobics classes or dance at Zumba. Silver Sneakers is a program designed for seniors just getting accustomed to exercising. The slower pace and modified exercises help you build up your body and get into the habit of exercising regularly.
Always check your blood sugar before and after exercising. Bring a snack and water to stay hydrated while you exercise. Be prepared for emergencies such as low blood sugars by carrying glucose tablets. Wear a medical ID bracelet or necklace to let people know you have diabetes if an emergency occurs.

Regular exercise can strengthen your heart and circulatory system. Exercising helps you maintain a healthy weight and may help stabilize your blood glucose levels over time. With a bit of planning and creativity, you have plenty of exercise options during inclement weather.