Maintaining a healthy lifestyle requires constant work and dedication. Unfortunately, it is not something that we can achieve and then ignore.

Taking care of your body needs to happen every day, year-round! When the weather cools down and the holidays arrive, it can be even harder to stay focused on your goals.

We can help you stay focused. Our team at AFC Urgent Care Greenwood has some great ideas to stay motivated toward your health goals. Read on.

Can I Mix up My Workout Routine in Winter?

You sure can! Your workout routine doesn’t have to be the same week after week. In fact, it is better for your body to try different things and exercise differently. When winter rolls around, it gets chilly out and darker much earlier in the evening. That can make getting motivated to head to the gym after work even harder.

We are grateful for the expansiveness of the internet! There are a plethora of free or low-cost exercise classes and videos online that you can follow along to in the comfort of your warm home. The CDC recommends 150 minutes of moderate exercise a week, so however you choose to move your body can count towards this recommendation. Try out a new yoga class online or get your heart rate up while ice skating with your family. Exercise doesn’t have to fit into the typical gym-like workout routine! Try adding in some seasonal activities throughout your week.

Winter-Friendly Exercise

• Ice skating
• Cross-country skiing
• Snowboarding
• Outdoor shoveling or raking
• Snowball fights

Can I Still Eat Healthy in Winter?

While winter certainly is not the time for an overabundance of fresh, in-season produce, you can still find ways to feed your family in a healthy way. All it takes is a little preparation and avoidance of too many heavy or rich comfort foods!

Canned or frozen foods like fruits and vegetables are great alternatives to fresh produce. Did you know that they have comparable nutrients to fresh options? They have great shelf lives and can be a quick addition to many dishes. Winter also allows root vegetables their time to shine. Potatoes, kohlrabi, turnips and carrots are all in season at this time and can add some heartiness and nutrients to your next soup or dinner.

Hearty Winter Meal Ideas

• Broth-based soups with a variety of vegetables
• Sheet pan dinners with lean protein and vegetables
• Fish like salmon
• Smoothie bowls with berries, yogurt and chia seeds
  

Taking control of your health is crucial year-round. If you need advice on how to incorporate these ideas in your daily life, come see us at AFC Urgent Care Greenwood.