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It doesnt have to be this way.
Adobe Stock / Sami
It could just be right outside your front door.
If youre feeling ambitious, you could combine it with something more active like snowshoeing or cross-country skiing.
I don’t go outside in the wintertime for fitness, period, she says.
Know that its okay to start a little slower, she says.
We always encourage our clients to do a lot ofbalance work, Scott says.
How about the parking lot?
Its wise to call in advance to check up-to-date trail conditions, Nagakyrie says.
Depending on where you live, you might have some luck asking on a local Facebook group or subreddit.
Nagakyries advice applies to other winter activities as well.
you’ve got the option to alsosearch Instagram for geo-tagged postsfrom the place you plan to visit.
Recent photos will give you some insight into what youre likely to encounter.
Its also wise to have a backup plan in case your first choice of activity cant happen.
They also recommend packing jumper cables, and a cell phone charger.
Finally, commit to stopping your activity as soon as you start to get tired.
Injuries are more likely to occur, Scott says, when people are fatigued.
They try things they shouldnt, or just make poor decisions that can put them at risk of injury.
Wool is an ideal material for a base layer (the layer worn closest to the body).
Wool wicks away moisture from the skin and naturally resists getting stinky, Leven says.
He also recommends a waterproof shell as your outermost layer when theres rain or snow to contend with.
Leven also says its important to think about your feet.
If youre just standing around, though, wear thicker wool socks.
Clothes arent the only gear to consider.
They made a huge difference in my ability to hike, Nagakyrie says.
Pocket hand warmers are another of Nagakyries go-to pieces of gear.
Items like these can meaningfully extend the time it’s possible for you to be comfortably outdoors.
Boue cruisesPoshmarkfor secondhand Smartwool base layers.
Buy-nothing groups may also have options for adults.
Some gear shops are more helpful than others in making gear last longer.
Bring tasty treats
Do not overlook snacks, even if you dont expect to be outside for very long.
Instead, he fills a thermos with hot chocolate or tea.
Boue recommends putting snacks at the top of a backpack so theyre easy to reach.
She favors holiday baked goods and even leftovers.
If you go that route, just be mindful of food safety and the outdoor temperature.
The Pacific Northwest turns into a really magical landscape that I really love, Nagakyrie says.
The moss just gets so green and plump from the rain.
Outdoor winter activities can also lower the risk of indoor illness transmission.
Finally, theres the aesthetics of winter, which are often stellar.
Its not even hyperbole: Everything glitters in the winter.
