How to Walk in the Winter

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By eHow Contributing Writer

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When the weather turns inhospitable in winter, you may be tempted to cut down on exercise. But walking in the winter can be as enjoyable as a summer stroll. Proper clothing can keep you walking outdoors through most of winter. When even the correct wardrobe can't keep you warm, indoor walking is a great alternative to lying on the couch. Follow these steps to learn more about walking in the winter.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

Warm exercise apparel
STABILicers

Focus on Your Fitness Goals

Step 1

Maintain your spring/summer workout schedule. Cutting out your regularly scheduled walks can be a slippery slope to inactivity.
Step 2

Schedule walks around holiday obligations. Planning your winter walks in advance will help you avoid having to squeeze them in later.
Step 3

Avoid holiday overeating by sipping water before dinner. Overeating kills your desire to walk.
Step 4

Organize a family walk to view holiday lighting displays in your neighborhood.

Suit Your Walking Wardrobe to the Weater Conditions

Step 1

Strap on some STABILicers (cleats that go over regular shoes). STABILicers will help you keep your footing on slippery winter surfaces.
Step 2

Wear gloves or mittens to protect your hands. Extremities get cold first, so you need to keep them warm.
Step 3

Don a waterproof hat with ear warmers. Wearing a hat is the most effective way to maintain body heat.
Step 4

Wear synthetic wool socks. These breathe better than wool and repel moisture.
Step 5

Dress in layers. Wearing long underwear and several layers of shirts will keep you warm, but will also allow you to remove clothes if the weather warms up.
Step 6

Consider using walking poles to walk through deep snow or up steep hills.

Give Snowshoeing a Shot

Step 1

Purchase, rent or borrow a pair of snowshoes. Ski shops rent snowshoes and poles at relatively inexpensive prices.
Step 2

Wear waterproof shoes with your snowshoes to keep your feet dry and comfortable.
Step 3

Walk normally. Be sure to place your feet flat on the ground. Modern snowshoes are narrow and easy to maneuver.
Step 4

Carry water and food with you. Snowshoeing burns far more calories than regular walking; so you need to stay hydrated.

Head to the Mall

Step 1

Contact your local mall information center and ask about organized mall walking groups. Many malls encourage mall walking by offering coupons or discounts to mall shops.
Step 2

Walk before the stores open to avoid shoppers. Many malls open early for groups of mall walkers.