How can I safely exercise in the winter?

Molly Abraham, Wellness Center Exercise Physiologist, offers these tips on how to continue an exercise routine in the winter months.

1) Dress in layers, so you can remove and replace as needed. Shop for clothes labeled "breathable" or "dry-fit." For your first layer, avoid cotton. This type of material will stay wet after you have started to sweat. Instead,opt for sweat-wicking material, this will draw sweat away from your body.  Follow with a fleece vest for more warmth. The last layer should be a windproof breathable layer. If it is very cold, wear a scarf to cover your face. This helps to warm the air before it enters your lungs. You may have to experiment to find the right combination based on exercise duration and intensity. Always remember to cover your ears and hands while exercising outdoors.   

2) It is important to warm up inside before heading outside.Warming up will jump start your body's heating system and will make the transition into the cold easier. Aim for five to ten minutes of light work such as marching, jogging in place or going up and down stairs.

3) Drink plenty of fluids! You can become dehydrated in cold weather as easily as when exercising in the heat. Be sure to drink water or a sports drink before and after exercise, even if you are not thirsty.

4) Safety is key. This is why indoor exercise is great in the winter. You can stay out of the cold, snow and ice and join us at the Wellness Center. Our climate-controlled environment offers group exercise classes, free weights, personal training and so much more!

For more information about the Wellness Center, call 540-316-2640.

New and former members who sign up by February 2 receive a 75 percent discount off the wellness assessment fee. Current members of the Wellness Center can join Make One Change with no additional cost.

So, pick the challenge that you would like to accept, and call us at 540-316-2640 to register by February 2. Or stop by the gym at  419 Holiday Court, Suite 200 in Warrenton to get started.

In 2013, be bold with Brussels sprouts! Many stay away from this unfamiliar vegetable, but try one of these delicious recipes: Soy Sauce & Cinnamon Brussels Sprouts, Avocado, Bacon & Lime Brussels Sprouts and Pistachio & Parmesan Roasted Brussels Sprouts. You never know, you might serve up seconds.

Thanks to the 131 of you who completed our 2012 Member Satisfaction Survey.   The results of the survey are posted in the main hallway of the Wellness Center.  We were able to use the feedback in the survey to correct some studio 2 temperature issues, move equipment around, and start planning our next group exercise schedule that will take effect in February 2013.  All in all the results were very positive, and I appreciate the comments many of you made about our wonderful staff and facility!  I also want to congratulate one of our members, Lauren Huffstickler, first place winner in the drawing for the ipod nano for completing the survey!  - LeAnn McCusker, Wellness Center Director

And the winners are.... 

• Lauren Huffstickler - iPod nano
• Debbie Elan - stainless steel water bottle
• Thomas Sultton - stainless steel water bottle