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Tips for staying active in winter

by IBD Medical on June 11, 2021

Staying active and keeping a regular exercise routine over winter is extremely important over these colder months. It is much harder to stay active when it’s cold outside and the days are shorter, which can push people towards a more sedentary lifestyle. That, in turn, can contribute to higher blood pressure, lower energy levels, trouble sleeping and even depression. Therefore, this is an important time to keep your health and wellness goals on track, as exercising will also boost your immune system, help with weight management, blood glucose management, and muscle strengthening.  

Even with the best intentions, many of us find it increasingly difficult to maintain that fitness routine during the winter months. We tend to hibernate and stay inside more than we do during the warmer months, eating more and moving less, therefore expending far less energy. 

 

Here are some tips that we have compiled to help you stay active this winter.

 

1. Stay hydrated

Even if you don’t feel thirsty, drink plenty of water. You are still losing fluids through sweat and breathing in the cooler temperatures. Make sure you keep up the fluids before and after exercise. 

 

2. Protect your feet

Our feet can sometimes get dry over winter, therefore it is important to invest in the correct socks to protect our feet while exercising. Try our Glucology Copper Socks that are moisture-wicking to keep your feet hydrated and protected.

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To take extra care of your feet, you might want to try out our Diabalm - it’s our specialty footcare cream which is designed for treating dry skin and preventing skin cracking with triple action!

 

Diabalm banner

 

3. Exercise with friends

Find an exercise group or partner to help hold you accountable. It is much easier to get out of bed if you know someone is waiting for you. To keep exercise as a part of your social life, grab a coffee to go on a walk or catch up with friends for an exercise class.

 

4. Mix up your routine and have a backup plan

Keep up the good habits, but switch up your usual routine by trying something different. This will help avoid boredom, keep you motivated, as well as increase your metabolism speed. Exercising different muscles will also help you manage your blood glucose levels. 

 

5. Protect your insulin and devices

Freezing temperatures can ruin insulin by making it separate and clump together once it thaws out. Protect your insulin when exercising outdoors and be aware that some devices may stop working, or give inaccurate readings in extremely cold weather. Remember to check the device for any limitation in cold weather. 

 

Below are some workout alternatives to help you stay active during the winter months:

  • As the mornings are colder, swap morning exercise for lunchtime walks or classes
  • Make the most of your weekends and daylight hours by going on long walks or bike rides
  • Join a gym with different classes for days when weather permits you from exercising outside
  • Swim in your local heated pool for a whole-body workout
  • Exercise at home using equipment around the house or YouTube videos. Exercise while watching TV, in the ad breaks or create a circuit around the house. 

 

Don’t let the winter months get you down, stay motivated and committed as you will never regret exercising. Monitor your blood glucose levels regularly as they may fluctuate more frequently in the colder weather and when exercising in temperatures your body isn’t used to. 


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Remember to always seek advice from your medical practitioner before changing anything about your diabetes management. The above information is not medical advice.

 

1 comment
by Lillian Jilbert on June 17, 2021

The Glucology Copper socks are wonderful. I bought 3 pairs to start with to try, After wearing them I bought another 6 pairs and have thrown most of my other socks out. I love the Diabalm, my feet have never been so soft. I am going to take these two items to my podiatrist and show her so she can recommend them to other clients with Diabetes. I am so happy with the results of these two items I bought.

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