How to Stay Fit Even in Winter

I know it's tough to work out when you have to rise before the sun and bundle up before you head outdoors. What you really want to do — and the last thing you should do — is to hit the snooze button and pull the blankets up over your head. But it's only winter! Don't let it throw you off your game.

Yes, the so-called winter blues produced by short days and cold weather can be very real and very draining, but exercise is one of the best ways to fight those feelings. Stop wasting time mulling over whether you should get up at 5 a.m. Get moving! That means getting your gear ready the night before so you can grab it and go. Remember, no excuses! Once you're outside, you'll be glad you stuck to your plan — and you'll find out pretty quickly that cold air can be just as good as coffee when it comes to getting you moving.

Here are some other tips for getting outdoors when the temperature drops:

• Protect yourself. Dress in layers of soft, breathable fabrics such as bamboo, organic cotton, and merino wool. You'll be able to adjust the layers according to your body heat — remove them as you warm up, and putting them back on as you cool down. Take care to protect your head, hands, and neck with hats, gloves, and scarves, and don't neglect any exposed skin — apply layers of organic SPF face cream and lip balm as needed. 
• Stay hydrated. When your body's working hard to stay hydrated out in the cold, dry air, each exhalation can sap your system a little more. People tend to forget that they can get dehydrated as easily by exercising in cold weather as in hot, so it's extremely important to up your water intake. The same goes for fuel: Even if you aren't out to run a marathon in Antarctica, getting a hearty helping of complex carbs an hour or two before vigorous exercise can make all the difference. 
• Warm up…and stretch and cool down inside, where it's warm. When it comes to the cold weather, it's really important to make sure your muscles aren't stiff, so take the time to warm up slowly to prevent pulling a muscle. 
• Be smart. Listen to your body — and the weather forecast. Bring it indoors if the mercury dips unusually low — freezing temperatures can end up doing more damage than good for even the most ambitious of outdoor enthusiasts. After all, you can always do my circuits or DVDs indoors! 

 Remember — the best way to liven up the dead of winter is to make great use of it. Running, hiking, downhill and cross-country skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, and ice skating are all ideal for getting outside and enjoying winter's beauty.