Don’t Let Winter Colds & Chills Stop You Being Active This Winter
With
the cold & flu season upon us, it’s worth spending
some time to make sure you are in the best possible position
to make it through winter without succumbing to every
bug. While covid19 is the illness
everyone is thinking of, there are a number of other chills
and ills that are worth avoiding. Prevention is
better than cure when it comes to winter colds and coughs,
and regular exercise is a valuable part of that prevention
plan. Getting out and about can be more difficult in the
cold and rain. However, there is no better way to stay warm
and stop your energy levels slumping mid-winter than with
regular exercise. There is plenty of advice
given about how to avoid winter illnesses. Some are based
firmly on facts, while others don’t have much substance.
Exercise and physical activity are one form of illness
prevention you can rely on. When we exercise regularly, we
enhance our overall health and sleep better. In winter this
can translate to a better immune system which can reduce the
number of winter bugs that lead to days off and less
exercise. When we exercise regularly, we enhance our overall
health and sleep better. From a psychological
perspective, exercising has a range of benefits, including
mood enhancing both in the period immediately after physical
activity, and in the longer term when activity is regular.
Another benefit that has come into focus in 2020 are the
social benefits of exercise, and encouraging human
connection, whether it’s a walk or a group activity, or
creating a sense of belonging being part of a club or
gym.
In winter it’s not uncommon for the best laid
exercise plans getting derailed by inclement weather and low
temperatures; that run or walk gets put off and the heater
gets turned up. If the outdoors isn’t calling the
way it did during lockdown, make the most of the indoor
activities that are available in clubs and exercise
facilities who can help and support you to stay
active. Attending a club or gym means you will have
plenty of variety, with a range of options from team
training and group sessions to smaller boutique studios
offering more specialist programmes. As if keeping warm and
dry isn’t enough, you’ll also get to take advantage of
advice on hand from exercise professionals who can help you
set some specific goals and support you along the
way. In a COVID world it’s important to know
that you are keeping yourself safe when out and about.
Exercise businesses in New Zealand are supported by the
Exercise Association of New Zealand who provide ongoing best
practice guidelines to keep you
safe.