New England winters –
Outdoor physical activity
Weather in New England is unpredictable and ever-changing. Weather can range from sunny, hot, humid
summer days, with the temperatures exceeding 95 degrees; to bitterly cold,
snowy, below-zero temperatures; and anything in between. With the current temperatures continuing to
drop and the covid19 pandemic continuing to affect everyone, there are still
ways to stay fit for duty and maintain covid19 precautions.
With gyms being closed and with people being hesitant to
return to indoor public spaces due to the pandemic, outdoor workouts are a
great way to maintain fitness, even as the weather gets colder. Workouts do not always have to utilize the
weight machines and free weight exercises of traditional gym-based
programs. Think outside the box, or in
this case, think outside in the fresh air.
Outdoor winter training is a great way to cross-train, ultimately
maintaining strength, endurance, and flexibility, while also allowing for
appropriate rest and recovery.
Various winter outdoor physical activities:
- Cross-country skiing
- Snowshoeing
- Downhill skiing and snowboarding
- Playing ice hockey
- Ice-skating
- Hiking
- Running or walking
- Splitting wood
While doing any activity outside, (whether it is for fun or job-related),
it is important to wear appropriate clothing to help protect against cold
injury (see our next blog post in February to learn more about cold
injuries). As such, it is important to
always dress in layers. The first layer,
closest to the skin, should be a moisture wicking fabric. The middle layer, a warm layer, should
preferably be made of fleece or wool; and the outermost layer should be a
wind/rain resistant layer. Also be sure
to wear appropriate shoes, gloves, and hats to protect the hands, feet, and
ears from the cold. If you will be
outside for extended periods of time, or if there is a chance your clothing
will become wet, it may be a good idea to have additional clothes. As with any exercise, it is important to stay
hydrated. Even though it may be frigid
outside, the human body will still cool itself off during activity by
sweating. It is important to replace
fluids lost from sweating.
As we say good-bye to 2020 and welcome in 2021, don’t be
afraid to be creative with your physical fitness. As a Tactical Athlete, your fitness directly
impacts your ability to safely and effectively do your job. When you are called to duty, you usually do
not get to choose what situation you are presented with, but you can choose to
be physically ready to handle all that is thrown your way. Don’t let the cold or the pandemic be a
reason not to remain (or become) fit for duty.
Take advantage of the fresh air and the various cold-weather activities
that New England has to offer in the winter.
Be safe and Happy New Year!
By: J. Scott, DPT, ATC, TSAC-F
Sources:
Cleveland clinic
Mayo clinic
Web MD
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