It is cold where I live. There is about a foot of snow on the ground. Snow offers a great chance to build lower body strength in a variety of different ways. Here are some fun exercises you can do to get the most of your outdoor training routine – even in the snow.
1) Running – If you have good running shoes and tights, running can be a great workout. Obviously you don’t want to run in the snow in running shoes – your feet will get wet and uncomfortable, but run on shoveled paths. This is good lower body training, as you will need to work harder to keep your balance and make sure you are stable. It is great training for your lower body and core.
2) Hiking – To use the snow to your advantage, put on your best boots – I prefer tall rubber boots – and start trudging through the snow. The heavy weight of the snow helps focus on building muscles in a different way.
3) Jumping – If you are working on your squats and building your muscle tone, you can get that from your workout by jumping in the deep snow. Try this in snow drifts (not close to the road of course), and you can even practice jumping, doing flips, and other gymnastics and standing up again, a great all around workout.
4) Walking – Pretty basic, but if you aren’t in the mood to run, just a nice brisk 5K walk in the snow/slush can really help your body. You may be surprised to find that different muscle groups are achy the next day.
5) Shovel! – You need to get the driveway clean, but don’t get out the snow blower. You can use your snow shovel to work your upper body, but if you shovel correctly, you also work your lower body; you will need to carry most of the weight in your hips rather than your back to avoid injury. Remember keep your knees bent, and lean into each lift to get the most for your lower body.
6) Soccer – Can you play soccer in the snow? It is a challenge, but a great way to get you running around in the snow. Convince your kids, friends, or other workout buddies to get into the action.
Just make sure not to hit the hot chocolate immediately after your workout, and remember to drink a lot of water, as you will still need it!
