How to stay active during the cold winter months

For some Canadians, staying active during the cold winter months is a challenge.

Though keeping warm indoors may sound more appealing, there are some tips and tricks to help with embracing winter fitness.

Fit and food

Leigh Vanderloo, exercise scientist at ParticipACTION, said on CBC's Afternoon Drive that people may be less likely to hit the outdoors during the winter due to cold temperatures and decreased daylight. There's also the added barrier of accessibility when the snow's piling up.

She said one thing that could help is sporting the proper outfit including reflective gear, practical winter footwear, layers, sunglasses and sunscreen. She encourages staying in well-lit areas where people and motorists can see you — especially when running.

Food also plays a big role in winter exercising, especially during an indulgent time of year when the flow of treats and goodies doesn't seem to stop.

"While delicious, we definitely want to make sure we're doing that in moderation," said Vanderloo.

She said people are encouraged to up their green vegetable intake and drink plenty of water.

Activities for all

Now that you're all suited up and ready to go, it's time to look at some winter activities you could get yourself involved in including some of the following:

• Skating.
• Pickup hockey.
• Skiing or cross-country skiing.
• Snow boarding.
• Ice fishing.
• Hunting.
• Building a snow fort, having a snowball fight or even shovelling.

Vanderloo said walking could also be "a great way to be active and it's something you can do with a different group of people regardless of ability, age or skill level."

Mall walking

However, some older Canadians may have some added challenges.

"One of the biggest challenges as an older adult with being active outside is the fear of slipping and falling and not only because there's a risk of severe injury or serious injury but also the anxiety and fear that comes along with falling and not wanting to fall again," she said.

That's why many of them are resorting to mall walking, an activity that's gaining huge popularity in Canada.

"There's a ton of mall walking groups across bigger malls and even some plazas. It allows people to get active but it also has that great social aspect," she said.

Whether it's a physical or social activity, exercising during the winter months can be made easy, she said.