For many Canadians, staying active during the winter months can be a challenge. Probably the most common reasons, reports CBC, are colder temperatures, less sunlight, and lower accessibility owing to the pile-up of snow. Regardless of the temptation to stay at home, however, there are important benefits to working out – especially outdoors. A study published in the British Medical Journal indicates that fitness can curb both the frequency and severity of colds, indicating that exercise as a whole can help boost the immunity during the cold months season.
Exercise Frequency is a Key Factor
The study took it's origin from the habits of 1,000 adults, whose respiratory health was tracked for three months during one autumn-winter season. Around 40% of participants were middle-aged, while 25% were aged 60 or older. Findings demonstrated that people who exercised for five or more days in a typical week were nearly half as likely to have cold symptoms, as those who were only active one day or less a week.
When they ended up getting colds, their symptoms were less considerably less severe than those who were less active. The researchers noted that exercise can spark a temporary rise in immune system cells, which circulate throughout the body. These levels fall back every few hours, which is why exercising frequently can help prevent colds more efficiently than occasional or moderate exercise.
Why is Outdoor Exercise Particularly Beneficial?
On cold days, it is logical to head for the gym but during the sunnier hours of the day, or once the weather is more clement, going for an outdoor jog or brisk walk can wield particular benefits in terms of motivation and results. An organized review published in the journal Environmental Science and Technology found that exercise in a natural environment has important physical and mental benefits. Outdoor settings help athletes use-up more calories and work harder, owing to terrain and wind resistance training. Nature is also a stronger motivator than gyms, with lots of reporting greater enjoyment from training outside. The problem with outdoor training includes frostbite. Among the risk factors for this condition is spending a lot of time outside. If you find that you develop red, numb, or cold skin, take it inside until the temperatures start to rise.
Goal-Setting Strategies are Key
A study published recently within the journal Psychological Science showed that people who report that they often plan to meet specific fitness goals, tend to engage in more physical activity than those who don't plan ahead. A lot of the magic has to do with personality, say scientists. That is, those who are able to make short-term sacrifices to produce long-term goals, are more likely to achieve them. Just a small difference in planning constitutes a big one in terms of results, so try to strategise how to stay motivated this winter.
Being physically fit is generally linked to a reduction of various infection risks. Research indicates that staying active can help lower both the frequency and harshness of colds, for instance. Exercising outdoors can planning your technique to achieve your goals can help inspire you. However, if it's simply too cold outside to make exercise any fun, go to the gym instead.