If our winter weather is starting to make you a little stir crazy and you are wishing for warmer weather so you can take your walk or run back outdoors, why are you waiting? Go ahead and get outside on nice, sunny days if the sidewalks and streets are clear! Just be sure to dress warm and stretch before you head outside. Here are a couple tips to remember before you brave the great outdoors in March and April:
- Cover your hands, feet, ears, face and neck since these body parts don’t get enough blood flow because your body is trying to fuel leg muscles during a brisk walk or run.
- Dress in layers because you can always remove clothing if you are too warm, but you can’t add a sweatshirt or hat out on the trails if you don’t have one along.
- Consider purchasing slip-on covers to your shoes that provide addition traction so that you don’t slip on icy sidewalks or snow-covered surfaces.
- Take a few minutes to warm up before you go outside.Muscles are tight when they are cold, so to prevent injuries, do a little stretching indoors ahead of time.Some good exercises to warm up include jumping jacks, high knees, marching or running in place, and squats.
- Wear bright colored clothing and tennis shoes with reflectors so you can be seen easily.
- Watch for oncoming traffic, always assume that the oncoming car or truck will not see you, and be prepared to move quickly.
- Always tell someone that you are going outside for a walk or run, especially if your route takes you on city streets, country highways, or a remote park trail.Tell them the exact route you follow and approximate time you will be home.
- Take your cell phone along in a zippered pocket in case you encounter a problem.Safety first!
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