Dress in Layers

Wearing layers of clothing helps keep heat close to your body, so you’ll feel warm enough outdoors in winter. This helps prevent you from losing too much body heat, which could lead to a dangerous condition called hypothermia. Choose clothing made from materials that will help you stay dry when you’re exercising, such as nylon or polyester. Staying dry is just as important as staying warm when you work out in the cold. 

Cover Your Hands, Head and Nose

Make sure that these areas are covered when you go outside to exercise this winter. Your nose, ears, and fingers are more likely to get frostbite due to exposure than the rest of your body. Wear a thick pair of gloves and a hat, and pull a scarf up so that it covers your nose when you’re outside, especially if it’s freezing or below freezing. You should also wear shoes that provide plenty of warmth for your feet to protect your toes from frostbite. 

Stay Hydrated

You might not think you need to drink as much while exercising outdoors in winter compared to summer. However, making sure your body has enough fluids is still important when you’re working out in the cold. Take small sips of water while you’re exercising.

Be Visible

You have fewer hours of daylight available for exercising outdoors in winter. If you go out early in the morning or in the early evening when it’s already dark out, wear clothing in bright colors or reflective gear. This can help drivers see you better in the dark when you’re crossing the road.

Our community includes an indoor pool that you can use to stay fit when it’s too cold to go out. Contact us to learn more about our other amenities in our community and apartments in Chicago, IL.

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1. Go Ice Skating

Nobody said you have to be stellar on skates to enjoy the experience of an outdoor ice-skating rink. In fact, if you can barely stay vertical atop the blades, you'll fit right in with tons of people who are putting their own skills to the test. 

2. Sip Hot Cocoa Outside

Whether you head to a local park or take an urban hike by hitting the city sidewalks, a steaming cup of hot cocoa should accompany your stroll. It's important to get outside and enjoy some fresh air, but it's also important to keep your body toasty and warm. Hot chocolate has a way of adding a childlike whimsy to an ordinary day, especially when winter's still on the calendar for a few more weeks.

3. Check Out the Zoo

Although the zoo is home to many types of animals all year long, certain species are more likely to spend time outside when the thermometer is still on the lower part of the scale. If you're bummed that the polar bears and penguins never seem to want to come out and play when you visit the zoo in June, schedule a trip to their habitats in the winter instead. 

4. Take a Stroll Around the Botanic Garden

Just as the zoo has an alternate personality when winter settles in, fauna and flora showcase different sides of themselves during this part of the year. Some of the flowers you're used to may be deep in a slumber, but you'll likely encounter a few plants you didn't even know exist. As an added bonus, the Botanic Garden tends to be a lot less crowded when it's cold.

One of the best ways to enjoy Chicago's winters is from the comfort of your own beautiful downtown apartment. Take a look at the views our North Harbor Tower apartments could offer you!

The post 4 Ways to Enjoy What’s Left of Winter appeared first on North Harbor Tower Blog.

1. Get an Exercise Buddy

It's harder to stop exercising when you answer to a friend who exercises with you. Ask a friend who likes to exercise to go walking or running with you. Set up at least one day per week when you're supposed to exercise together, then stick to the schedule.  

2. Adjust Your Diet

Winter is a time when people tend to eat a lot of dense, calorie-heavy foods. This, coupled with a reduction in the amount of exercise you're doing, can contribute to weight gain and other changes in physical fitness. Adjusting your diet to maintain your summer physique can help you stay healthy. Swap out casseroles for salads. Practice portion control. Do it safely: Talk to your nutritionist, training coach or doctor to ensure that you're eating right for your lifestyle.

3. Take Up Winter Sports

Winter sports can be a lot of fun! Skiing, snowboarding, and ice skating are all enjoyable activities that can be done outdoors in the cold.

Winter sports are also motivating. It's fun to spend time outside when you're skiing down a hill! To find out more about winter sports, talk to a friend who already participates in outdoor winter activities, or check out nearby facilities where you can get started. 

4. Climb Some Stairs

You don't have to go to the gym to fit in some good exercise! Climb the stairs of your building to burn off extra calories. Do this after dinner or after waking up in the morning. You'll develop your leg muscles and stay fit while you do it.

Stop In At North Harbor Tower

At North Harbor Tower, we're enjoying a fine Chicago winter! We'd love for you to join our community as well. To view our apartments in Chicago, IL, call us today to make an appointment.

The post 4 Winter Fitness Tips to Help You Stay Active appeared first on North Harbor Tower Blog.