With cool temperatures creeping in, it's easy for cold mornings or cool evenings to disrupt your routine and make it harder for you to get out on your walk. As temperatures fall, don't allow your motivation to stop! Instead, try these tips to get out on your walk despite the weather.
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Buy good shoes with a solid grip.
As temperatures drop, the risk of snow and ice may go up. Shoes with a good grip can help keep you steady on your feet if you encounter patches of ice while you're out on your daily walk. Oakwood, for example, may see an estimated 18 inches of snow each year. While that's lower than the US average, it could still get in the way of your routine if you aren't prepared.
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Wear the right clothing for the weather.
When you're headed out in the cold, bundle up! January lows, during the coldest time of the year, can drop as low as 21 degrees, which can make for an incredibly chilly walk. To ensure that you're dressed right for those cold days, make sure you have a hat, scarf, and gloves, as well as a warm coat that will help keep you cozy despite the falling temperatures.
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Check the weather report before you head out.
Before you head out on your walk, make sure you take the time to look over the weather report. Temperatures can vary significantly from one day to the next, especially as snow creeps in. You don't want to overdress and end up badly overheated on your walk, but you don't want to underdress and end up shivering before you get down the street, either.
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Identify safe walking routes.
Pay attention to the best places to walk safely as the weather changes. Do people in your neighborhood typically shovel the sidewalks? Is there a nearby park that is generally well-kept during the winter months? As temperatures drop, it may be even more important to make sure that you have identified a safe place to walk. You may also want to look for well-lit areas, since the Beavercreek area may see much less daylight during the colder months of the year.
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Have alternate plans in mind.
If you can't get out for your usual daily walk, where can you go instead? You might, for example, want to head over to The Mall at Fairfield Commons and walk around inside, where it might be a little warmer. If you can't go for a walk at all, especially if you get snowed in and need to keep yourself active, consider what you might do instead. Can you do a yoga routine? Light weights? Walk around inside your home? Make sure you stay active even during the cold months.
If you find yourself struggling more during the cold months, when it can be more difficult to get things done, Senior Helpers of Dayton can help. Contact us to learn more about our services and how we can support you in your daily tasks and routines.