HEALTH

 
Here’s the deal:
 
If it’s actually cold where you live, start by pulling on layers. Spandex pants (with sweats over them, if it’s freezing), a base shirt (like a tee or long-sleeve), fleece and then a jacket. You can always peel layers off if you get cold. Pop on a hat and gloves if necessary. It’s actually snowy outside? Pull on your best boots with treads—you don’t want to slip and fall while you’re running around. If you are running around on the fluffy stuff, make sure there’s grass (not pavement) underneath ya. Be careful, babe!
 
The Get Warm-up
It’s not good to go from freezing to a full-on sprint
Start by jogging around your yard or neighborhood for five minutes. Thinking warm thoughts (hello, tropical island) or singing your fave carols will keep you mind off the cold.
 
Once you’re warmed up, start in on the fun stuff.
 
Sleigh Pulls
Channel Santa while you toast some cals
Got snow? Find a friend or sib and take turns pulling each other around on a sled. Vary your speeds and see if they can hang on while you sprint it out. Got bare ground? Head to a nearby hill. Sprint up the hill and jog down the hill for two minutes. Give yourself a quick breather and repeat three more times.
 
Reindeer Relay
Take flight with some leg-strengthening leaps and bounds
Find a flat patch of land and measure out 25 yards (just eyeball it—it’s about a ¼ of a soccer field). Then, skip across the space, making sure you catch lots of air along the way. Repeat for 1 minute. Take a quick breather and then repeat 3 more times.
 
Abominable Snowman Lunges
This beast is known for lumbering around. Take his lead (sorta) and you’ll tone your butt and thighs
Start on your flat spot and take a big step forward with your left foot. Bend both knees and lunge down, ensuring your knee doesn’t go over your ankle. When you rise back up to start, step forward with your right foot. Keep walking that way for two minutes. Want a cardio warm-up? If it’s not slippery, try plyometric lunges, where you jump in between each lunge instead of walking along.
 
Jumping Jack Frosts
Some old-school P.E. moves get your heart going again
Do five sets of 10 jumping jacks. Want a break in between? Do some sprints for an extra boost.
 
The Cool Down
Jog around your neighborhood for 5 minutes. If you start to get cold, go back inside and stretch out with a few yoga moves. A cup of tea when you’re done hydrates ya.

by Katie Abbondanza | 2/1/2016