Changing Seasons, Changing Workouts

A change in seasons is an excellent time to be creative about your exercise routine and try something new. There are many ways to be active throughout the year.

Winter

• When your grandchildren visit, head outside to build a snowman together.
• Cold outdoor temperatures are an excellent time to take dance lessons or join a mall-walking group.

Spring

• As the temperatures start to get warm, get your garden ready for spring and summer. The lifting and bending you do when gardening are great for strength and flexibility.
• A bike ride is a great way to enjoy the warmer temperatures.

Summer

• Swim laps or take a water aerobics class. These are both refreshing once the weather gets steamy.
• Walking in the mall is a cool way to beat the heat.

Fall

• Fall leaves provide great opportunities for physical activity. You can take long walks to see the beautiful fall colors. Once the leaves have fallen, raking is good exercise.
• As the weather begins to cool, join an indoor league for such sports as basketball, handball or bowling.

Quick Tip

Dress appropriately for the outdoor temperatures, and exercise indoors on especially hot or cold days.

By NIH/National Institute on Aging