Keep Warm and Stay Fit
You don't have to give up outdoor exercise just because the winter season is approaching. Many outdoor sports can be continued or adopted throughout the fall and winter months. Biking, walking, and cross-country skiing offer excellent aerobic and conditioning benefits, and are fun to do! Whichever sport you choose to participate in, make sure you take the proper precautions to make your time outdoors safe and enjoyable.

Cycling and cross-country skiing generate a lot of heat because both activities expend hundreds of calories. For either sport, it's best to wear layered, lightweight clothing that can be easily peeled off. Long underwear, jeans, a couple of shirts, and a wool sweater make up a sensible outfit for these sports. Another option is to wear undergarments made of polypropylene, which provide protection from the cold while allowing moisture to escape. Don't neglect your head and hands; a wool hat and insulated gloves will protect you against heat loss.

If your exercise outing extends into the evening, wear protective garments that are visible in the darkness. Fluorescent or reflective headbands, vests, belts, and patches can be worn by cyclists and walkers to alert motorists. If you enjoy bike riding, make sure your bike is equipped with front, side, rear, and pedal reflectors. In addition, you might want to mount a headlight and taillight to your bike. Finally, obey traffic rules; the same rules that apply for motorists apply for cyclists, too.