Dec. 21 was the winter solstice. This marks the official start of winter.
I understand that since this is my first “winter” in East Texas, my views might be a little skewed, but as far as I’ve seen, people tend not to move around as much when it gets “cold” here.
I cannot stress enough the importance of either starting or continuing an exercise program during the winter.
Getting out for some exercise can help cure your cabin fever, and can help you prevent feeling sluggish and putting on the winter weight.
Here are some helpful hints to get you started.
First it is important to stay properly hydrated. You can become just as dehydrated in cold weather as you can in warm weather.
Cold air is also associated with dry air. The drier the air, the more water your body can lose through respiratory vapor.
Cold weather also depresses the thirst reflex. It is important for someone who is exercising to make a deliberate and conscience effort to adequately hydrate before, and during exercise.
Another important consideration while exercising in the cold is your breathing. Exercising in cold weather is believed to increase the occurrence of exercise induced broncho-spasms or EIB.
EIB can manifest itself with often overlooked symptoms such as labored breathing, chest tightness, excessive mucous production, coughing and wheezing.
All of these symptoms can reflect upon your performance. It is also very important to mention that in a person with an underlying respiratory condition such as asthma, EIB can be a very dangerous situation.
If you have pulmonary issues, consult your physician before exercising in cold weather.
The final issue I want to address is proper attire when working out in cold weather. A common mistake is that people dress too warmly for winter workouts.
Your body naturally generates heat while you’re working out. The best strategy is to dress in layers.
Your base layer should be a light synthetic material that wicks the sweat away from you body. Avoid cotton for a base layer because it absorbs the sweat and holds it against your body which can cause you to get chilled.
The second layer should be for insulation. Fleece materials make a good lightweight insulator. The Top layer should be a breathable, weatherproof layer. If your clothing is too heavy, such as a down material, you may overheat, which will affect your performance.
Kolby Andrews is a personal trainer at Trinity Mother Francis Health and Fitness Center.
Living
Fitness column: Get ready for a winter workout
- Living
-
-
‘Storage Wars: Texas’ auctioneer to host annual event
The pressure is on for Troup ISD students as auctioneer Walt Cade from the A&E television show, “Storage Wars: Texas,” will host the annual art auction slated for April 19.
-
Bob Bowman’s East Texas
To paraphrase a quote by the Marquise de Deffand in 1774, I don't believe in ghosts, but I have a healthy respect for them.
-
The Book Shelf: ‘State of Wonder’: Complicated but intriguing
This is a beautifully written book with a complicated yet intriguing plot line.
-
‘One For The Money’: Engaging characters
Thanks to One For The Money (rated PG-13, 106 minutes) I have become a fan of Stephanie Plum, the Trenton, NJ, Italian lingerie salesclerk turned bail bonds bounty hunter popularized in eighteen novels written by Janet Evanovich.
-
‘We are like a big family’
Benny Walker has been a pastor at Taylor's Chapel Community Church in Tecula for 64 years. In that time, several generations have attended the church.
-
Bob Bowman’s East Texas
Over one hundred and thirty years ago Texans celebrated the completion of the Texas Capitol in Austin.
-
The Book Shelf: ‘The Postmistress’ a bittersweet tale
The Postmistress, a recent best seller by Sarah Blake, is a bittersweet story set in the WWII era just before America entered the war. The story revolves around three women in a small New England town. One
-
A pain relieving procedure
Jack Middlebrook had a splitting headache for more than 11 years.
-
Bob Bowman’s East Texas
Today, an automobile road trip across East Texas is a delight for many families, largely because roads are well-paved, signs mark the towns and distances, and there are ample gas stations and eating places.
-
In ‘Smokin’ Seventeen,’ its over-the-top characters
If you’ve read best-selling author Evanovich, you’re probably already acquainted with her character, Stephanie Plum. Our current climate ofwomen’s lib has created career opportunities for women that previously did not exist. Ergo, Stephanie is a bail bonds enforcer.
- More Living Headlines
-





