Keep movin'!

Cabin fever is upon us. Cold temperatures, gray days, and long, dark nights can make you want to curl up and hibernate. But it’s a better idea to stay active through these winter months. Exercise can banish the winter blues and increase your energy level.

Here are some tips for keeping your activity level—and your attitude—up during the cold weather.

• Find a place to walk. Many schools and shopping malls offer their hallways to walkers in the “off-hours,” mornings and evenings.
• You can exercise at home without buying expensive equipment by doing strengthening exercises like crunches, push-ups and leg lifts. Use cans of soups or vegetables for hand weights. Add a jump rope session for a cardio workout.
• If you walk or run outdoors, be sure to dress appropriately for the weather. Wear a wicking layer near your skin, an insulating layer, and an outer waterproof layer to keep you warm while you’re exercising. If you have asthma or if it is very cold, wear a face mask or scarf over your nose and mouth.

For more information, get advice straight from the Mayo Clinic or visit About.com for some cold weather exercise tips.

As always, be sure to check with your doctor before beginning an exercise program. Be healthy, stay happy, and you'll learn to love winter!