Gundersen Lutheran wellness expert offer tips for staying active during winter months

Don't let the winter months and dreaded frigid temperatures derail you from getting exercise. Remaining active will keep your energy levels high, your mind alive and your body healthy and strong.

"Just because the winter weather isn't always ideal for outdoor activities, doesn't mean you should just sit around the house and do nothing," says Jessica Boland, Gundersen Lutheran wellness education specialist. "Exercise year round helps a person lower their blood pressure, develop stronger bones, assists in weight control, improve your mood and increase flexibility."

Boland suggests winter walking, cross-country skiing, snow shoeing and ice skating are great ways to enjoy the winter months outdoors, but if you would rather stay inside there are plenty of ways to stay active too. "Performing everyday house chores such as vacuuming, dusting and mopping are great ways to keep your heart-rate up while getting your chores accomplished," Boland says. "Walk around the house or up and down the stairs during commercials or when on the phone. Try to move every 30 minutes. Strengthen muscles with a resistance band or small weight twice a week. A soup can is a good substitute for a hand weight. Place two or three cans in a sock for additional weight. You could also utilize the mall for brisk walking, purchase or rent exercise videos or DVDs or get a membership to a local health club or fitness center. The key is to try and get an average of 30 minutes of exercise each day."

For more information contact your primary care provider or call Gundersen Lutheran Community and Preventive Care Services at (608) 775-4717.