Showing posts with label outside. Show all posts
Spring Into a Healthier Life!
March 24, 2017
5 Tips for Running Outside in Cold Weather
December 9, 2016
December is here and with it comes colder and colder days. Those cold days are wonderful for curling up beside the fire and drinking coffee, tea or hot cocoa with a good book, project or phone call! What those colds days aren't good for is exercise.
As the weather gets colder, the days get shorter and the holidays get closer, it can be harder and harder to find time or the desire to get outside and get moving! Not only is exercise important, but spending time outside everyday is wonderful for your physical and mental health! Ever since our treadmill broke ( after 7 years running strong) I have taken my running outside. During the fall it was glorious, with perfect weather and the colors changing every day! But, now that winter is very much here, it is harder to enjoy my runs! The temps. are sometimes in the 20's and often it is drizzling rain! So, what do I do? Did I quit running? Never! I simply learned to run in whatever conditions the day presented me with!
Tips for Running Outside in Winter Weather
#1 Wear Layers
My very first cold run wasn't super fun, but I did learn a few things from it! It is very important to wear thin layers on your run instead of one or two thick layers. That way, as you warm up, you can slowly peel away the layers and not get too cold too soon. If you are wearing two thick layers and you become warm, you have two options-either be too warm or too cold. With multiple thin layers, its easier to stay comfortable!
Depending on the weather, I usually wear a pair of running pants with some leggings underneath and some knee length socks. I wear a long-sleeved running shirt, a pullover and a light jacket and, if the weather is cold enough, a neck warmer, gloves and an ear warmer. I get cold easily, so this is just perfect for me, but you might not need as much or you might need more! The only way to find out is to experiment and find what works for you!
#2 Moisturize!
I cannot stress this enough! Being outside in the cold weather is very drying to your skin, and it can become very painful if you don't protect against it! On my first really cold runs this year, I had very chapped cheeks and cracked lips, which were both very painful! Now, I use a moisturizer on my face before and after my run and I apply chap stick several times before, during and after my run. If I am not wearing gloves, I apply the same lotion as my face to my hands to ensure they don't become chapped. We all want to have nice skin, lips and hands all year round, so taking care of them during the winter is a must-do!
#3 Plan Your Run
Running in the winter months(or anytime) takes a bit of planning. You have to take in account the temperatures, weather conditions and daylight hours. I am a morning runner, so I have to be aware of when the sun will rise, so that I am not running in complete darkness. If you run in the evenings, you need to know when the sun is going to set. You also need to know the weather conditions so that you aren't caught by rain, snow, ice or fog. Running in these conditions can be dangerous and its best to avoid them. Check the weather the day before you plan to run and at least can hour before you head out to run to make sure you are prepared! Knowing what the temperature will be for you run is important as well. It helps you know how to dress. Being aware of all these things helps you have a safer and more enjoyable run every time, all year long!
#4 Hydrate!
You might not realize it, but even if you are freezing, you can still be sweating. A lot of people tend to become dehydrated during exercises in the winter because they don't feel thirsty or warm. When you workout in the winter, whether you are running outside or working out inside, you are still loosing water through sweat and you still need to drink lots of water, even if you don't feel like it! Being dehydrated can lead to fatigue, dry skin, weight gain and headaches as well as a long list of other symptoms. Stay feeling great all winter long by making sure to drink plenty of water all day long, especially on days that you exercise!
#5 Stay Motivated!
When its cold and dreary outside, the last thing you probably want to do is go out for a run. I understand, I feel that way sometimes too, but it is so important that you just do it! Running, or any form of exercise is so beneficial for beating the winter blues and putting you in a good mood! No one feels like being festive when your gloomy or lethargic because of the weather. Getting outside and going for a run is the best way to cure that!
Make your runs fun! Challenge a friend, find a running buddy, or find a really great podcast to listen to on your run. There are so many ways to motivate yourself to get out there and run, you just have to find what works best for you! For me, I have several podcast that I only listen to when I run, so I have something to look forward to every time!
I hope this post encourages and helps you get out the door and on a run this winter! Anyone who runs knows that going on a run is one of the best things in the world, and no one wants to give that up just because its cold outside! I hope these tips are just as useful to you as they have been to me! Happy Running!
Please share this post and my blog with your friends and family to help everyone live a healthy life!
You can follow this blog via email, Google and social media!
Instagram- That_Vegan_Runner
Twitter- SpinachisGood
Pinterest- Hannah Plunkett
Tumblr- justrunningforfood
I post every Friday!
Stay healthy, happy and laughing!
Happy Holidays!
-Hannah
As the weather gets colder, the days get shorter and the holidays get closer, it can be harder and harder to find time or the desire to get outside and get moving! Not only is exercise important, but spending time outside everyday is wonderful for your physical and mental health! Ever since our treadmill broke ( after 7 years running strong) I have taken my running outside. During the fall it was glorious, with perfect weather and the colors changing every day! But, now that winter is very much here, it is harder to enjoy my runs! The temps. are sometimes in the 20's and often it is drizzling rain! So, what do I do? Did I quit running? Never! I simply learned to run in whatever conditions the day presented me with!
Tips for Running Outside in Winter Weather
#1 Wear Layers
My very first cold run wasn't super fun, but I did learn a few things from it! It is very important to wear thin layers on your run instead of one or two thick layers. That way, as you warm up, you can slowly peel away the layers and not get too cold too soon. If you are wearing two thick layers and you become warm, you have two options-either be too warm or too cold. With multiple thin layers, its easier to stay comfortable!
Depending on the weather, I usually wear a pair of running pants with some leggings underneath and some knee length socks. I wear a long-sleeved running shirt, a pullover and a light jacket and, if the weather is cold enough, a neck warmer, gloves and an ear warmer. I get cold easily, so this is just perfect for me, but you might not need as much or you might need more! The only way to find out is to experiment and find what works for you!
#2 Moisturize!
I cannot stress this enough! Being outside in the cold weather is very drying to your skin, and it can become very painful if you don't protect against it! On my first really cold runs this year, I had very chapped cheeks and cracked lips, which were both very painful! Now, I use a moisturizer on my face before and after my run and I apply chap stick several times before, during and after my run. If I am not wearing gloves, I apply the same lotion as my face to my hands to ensure they don't become chapped. We all want to have nice skin, lips and hands all year round, so taking care of them during the winter is a must-do!
#3 Plan Your Run
Running in the winter months(or anytime) takes a bit of planning. You have to take in account the temperatures, weather conditions and daylight hours. I am a morning runner, so I have to be aware of when the sun will rise, so that I am not running in complete darkness. If you run in the evenings, you need to know when the sun is going to set. You also need to know the weather conditions so that you aren't caught by rain, snow, ice or fog. Running in these conditions can be dangerous and its best to avoid them. Check the weather the day before you plan to run and at least can hour before you head out to run to make sure you are prepared! Knowing what the temperature will be for you run is important as well. It helps you know how to dress. Being aware of all these things helps you have a safer and more enjoyable run every time, all year long!
#4 Hydrate!
You might not realize it, but even if you are freezing, you can still be sweating. A lot of people tend to become dehydrated during exercises in the winter because they don't feel thirsty or warm. When you workout in the winter, whether you are running outside or working out inside, you are still loosing water through sweat and you still need to drink lots of water, even if you don't feel like it! Being dehydrated can lead to fatigue, dry skin, weight gain and headaches as well as a long list of other symptoms. Stay feeling great all winter long by making sure to drink plenty of water all day long, especially on days that you exercise!
#5 Stay Motivated!
When its cold and dreary outside, the last thing you probably want to do is go out for a run. I understand, I feel that way sometimes too, but it is so important that you just do it! Running, or any form of exercise is so beneficial for beating the winter blues and putting you in a good mood! No one feels like being festive when your gloomy or lethargic because of the weather. Getting outside and going for a run is the best way to cure that!
Make your runs fun! Challenge a friend, find a running buddy, or find a really great podcast to listen to on your run. There are so many ways to motivate yourself to get out there and run, you just have to find what works best for you! For me, I have several podcast that I only listen to when I run, so I have something to look forward to every time!
Please share this post and my blog with your friends and family to help everyone live a healthy life!
You can follow this blog via email, Google and social media!
Instagram- That_Vegan_Runner
Twitter- SpinachisGood
Pinterest- Hannah Plunkett
Tumblr- justrunningforfood
I post every Friday!
Stay healthy, happy and laughing!
Happy Holidays!
-Hannah
Heat Safety for the 4th of July!
July 1, 2016
Summer is here and the 4th of July is just a few days away! This means spending lots of time outside, under the sun and in the heat. This can be dangerous and even fatal if you don't know how to protect yourself against the sun and heat. With a few simple tips, you can enjoy the outdoors, summer fun and 4th of July celebrations, and stay healthy and safe!
We all love to be outside, and during the summer we spend more time outside than inside! Being outside exposes us to the sun's rays, the heat, and the bugs. Learning how to protect yourself from those things will not only help you have a more enjoyable time, but it will keep you healthier!
Wear Sunscreen!
Sunscreen is something you should never forget when spending lots of time outside! Sunscreen is so important because it protects you from getting sun burned! Not only are sunburns painful, but they can even cause health problems later in life! Wear at least SPF 15 and reapply every 30-40 minutes. Remember, when your swimming, the lotion doesn't last as long. Also, the sun reflects off the water and can burn your more quickly. Wear some sunscreen, and enjoy yourself without worrying about getting burned!
Drink Water!
When you are outside, in the sun, you will get dehydrated very quickly! Being dehydrated can be a very serious health problem if not taken care of right away. Your best bet is to prevent it from even happening! Drink lots of water ( plain water, other drinks don't count) before, during and after your time outside to protect yourself from becoming dehydrated! Signs of dehydration include headaches, thirst, fatigue, dizziness, rapid breathing and constipation. Drinking lots of water will help you stay safe and healthy in the summer heat!
Find Some Shade!
Staying outside all day long might seem like a lot of fun, but it isn't the healthy thing to do. Long exposer to the sun and heat can cause your body to be come dehydrated, fatigued and can even cause heat stroke! Find time to spend in the shade or inside for your body to cool down and to get a break from the sun. Also, wearing sunglasses and a sun hat can help keep your body cool and protect from the sunrays. While being outside is a blast, spending time in the shade keeps your body healthy!
Bug Repellent
Bugs are annoying and their bites can be painful. They can turn a fun family picnic or pool party into a uncomfortable experience! Applying bug spray, lighting citronella candles in the area, and keeping food and drinks covered up will help with the bugs and help to make your experience much more enjoyable! If you aren't keen on the idea of chemical-filled bug sprays, there are lots of natural options out there!
Pet Safety
While keeping yourself safe in the summer is important, you shouldn't forget about your animal friends! They same rules that apply to humans apply to animals as well! Make sure you provide plenty of water and shade and NEVER leave them in a hot car or direct sunshine. Keeping your pets safe in the summer is just as important as keeping yourself safe!
Wear Proper Clothing
Wearing the right kinds of clothes can make your outdoor activities so much more enjoyable! Lose, light weight and light colored clothes are the best. Dark colors attract the sun's rays while light colors repel them. Lose clothing allows your skin to breath and helps to keep your cool! Make sure you are wearing the right thing when you are outside to keep you cool and comfortable!
Don't Over Do It
In the summer, the heat and sun can be brutal. It is important to know when enough is enough. Exercising, working or just playing in the heat and sun can be dangerous if you don't know how to protect yourself and when to call it quits. Don't spend more than an hour outside without some water, sunscreen, and spending time in the shade.
I hope this blog post is helpful and keeps you and your family safe this summer! Everyone wants to have a fun time outside, celebrating and playing, but its important to keep yourself safe and healthy too! Take time to plan and prepare and keep yourself safe and your outdoor fun will never be ruined or interrupted!
Please share this blog and this post with your friends and family to help keep them safe and to spread the love of a healthy lifestyle!
You can follow the blog via email, Google, Twitter @ SpinachisGood, Tumblr @ justrunningforfood, Instagram @ that_vegan_runner and on Pinterest @ Hannah Plunkett.
Happy 4th of July!
Stay Healthy, Happy and Laughing!
H. Banana
We all love to be outside, and during the summer we spend more time outside than inside! Being outside exposes us to the sun's rays, the heat, and the bugs. Learning how to protect yourself from those things will not only help you have a more enjoyable time, but it will keep you healthier!
Wear Sunscreen!
Sunscreen is something you should never forget when spending lots of time outside! Sunscreen is so important because it protects you from getting sun burned! Not only are sunburns painful, but they can even cause health problems later in life! Wear at least SPF 15 and reapply every 30-40 minutes. Remember, when your swimming, the lotion doesn't last as long. Also, the sun reflects off the water and can burn your more quickly. Wear some sunscreen, and enjoy yourself without worrying about getting burned!
Drink Water!
When you are outside, in the sun, you will get dehydrated very quickly! Being dehydrated can be a very serious health problem if not taken care of right away. Your best bet is to prevent it from even happening! Drink lots of water ( plain water, other drinks don't count) before, during and after your time outside to protect yourself from becoming dehydrated! Signs of dehydration include headaches, thirst, fatigue, dizziness, rapid breathing and constipation. Drinking lots of water will help you stay safe and healthy in the summer heat!
Find Some Shade!
Staying outside all day long might seem like a lot of fun, but it isn't the healthy thing to do. Long exposer to the sun and heat can cause your body to be come dehydrated, fatigued and can even cause heat stroke! Find time to spend in the shade or inside for your body to cool down and to get a break from the sun. Also, wearing sunglasses and a sun hat can help keep your body cool and protect from the sunrays. While being outside is a blast, spending time in the shade keeps your body healthy!
Bug Repellent
Bugs are annoying and their bites can be painful. They can turn a fun family picnic or pool party into a uncomfortable experience! Applying bug spray, lighting citronella candles in the area, and keeping food and drinks covered up will help with the bugs and help to make your experience much more enjoyable! If you aren't keen on the idea of chemical-filled bug sprays, there are lots of natural options out there!
Pet Safety
While keeping yourself safe in the summer is important, you shouldn't forget about your animal friends! They same rules that apply to humans apply to animals as well! Make sure you provide plenty of water and shade and NEVER leave them in a hot car or direct sunshine. Keeping your pets safe in the summer is just as important as keeping yourself safe!
Wear Proper Clothing
Wearing the right kinds of clothes can make your outdoor activities so much more enjoyable! Lose, light weight and light colored clothes are the best. Dark colors attract the sun's rays while light colors repel them. Lose clothing allows your skin to breath and helps to keep your cool! Make sure you are wearing the right thing when you are outside to keep you cool and comfortable!
Don't Over Do It
In the summer, the heat and sun can be brutal. It is important to know when enough is enough. Exercising, working or just playing in the heat and sun can be dangerous if you don't know how to protect yourself and when to call it quits. Don't spend more than an hour outside without some water, sunscreen, and spending time in the shade.
I hope this blog post is helpful and keeps you and your family safe this summer! Everyone wants to have a fun time outside, celebrating and playing, but its important to keep yourself safe and healthy too! Take time to plan and prepare and keep yourself safe and your outdoor fun will never be ruined or interrupted!
Please share this blog and this post with your friends and family to help keep them safe and to spread the love of a healthy lifestyle!
You can follow the blog via email, Google, Twitter @ SpinachisGood, Tumblr @ justrunningforfood, Instagram @ that_vegan_runner and on Pinterest @ Hannah Plunkett.
Happy 4th of July!
Stay Healthy, Happy and Laughing!
H. Banana
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