hot – Jenna Jamieson, Author

Make cold weather your motivation!

By Jenna Jamieson | December 2, 2014 | Comments 0 Comment

So, all I hear right now are complaints and negativity about the cold weather, snow, winter and yada yada yada. Personally, I LOVE snow and I LOVE cold weather. I actually can’t emphasize that enough and mostly because I love sweaters and boots and turtlenecks and scarves. It makes me feel warm and fuzzy inside! 🙂

But for all those cold weather haters and grumpy “grinches” out there, here’s something for you to think about! Cold weather has actually been proven in several studies to be better for you! For one, people tend to move faster and walk more briskly when it is cold out, increasing their heart rate more quickly than they would in warm or hot temperatures. During the summer, people tend to walk more leisurely and therefore not as many calories are burned and your heart rate doesn’t speed up as quickly. In other words, all those exercises such as walking, running, hiking, etc that you do (outside) after your Christmas feast or before the drinks and appetizers begin on NYE will be most beneficial in the cold, winter temperatures! 😉

Second, studies have shown that people burn more calories during the cold, winter months when the body must use more energy in order to maintain a warm, steady body temperature. So, next time you consider complaining about the cold, winter months, maybe you should be thanking Mother Nature for the gift she is giving you! 😉 Two great exercise benefits: 1) you walk faster to keep your body heat up to get to your destination and 2) you burn more calories because your body is working equally as hard to help you maintain a balanced body temperature. Sounds like a win win to me…so get out there and get to moving. Play in the snow with your kids, take a hike to see the scenery, walk your dog to get fresh air, or even take treats to neighbors and friends by foot to get into the real holiday spirit of giving!

Let me remind everyone that each person’s body is different so what works for me, may not work for you. Cold weather is something I love and enjoy, but it may not be something that fits you or your workout! Further, where I see success, you may not see as much success because of the activity and level of intensity within the workout. Don’t let that discourage you, but rather let those stumbling blocks be the force and motivation that keep you going.

So, grab some gloves, a hat, and cold weather gear, throw on a pullover or winter running clothing and get to exercising. After all, there are plenty of fun outside activities to do, so don’t let the cold weather stop you from getting your 30 minutes a day! Happy Winter!

~jj

Summer Heat: Staying safe & having fun in the sun!

By Jenna Jamieson | July 22, 2014 | Comments 0 Comment

There have been several instances this summer where I have read of people running and doing intense cardio workouts outside in the extreme heat…extreme heat and temperatures of close to 100 degrees. This is becoming a problem because nearly every summer we hear the warnings and dangers of staying hydrated, being safe and responsible, and staying out of the heat when the temperatures are at dangerously high levels. I know every summer I read about at least one person who thinks that they are invisible and can stand up to the heat to run outside, but they die from heat exhaustion because they pushed too hard in the heat. Remember that while you may be fit and trim and able to keep up with the heat, it doesn’t mean you should. It is important to remember that the heat can be dangerous and while it may seem like a good idea to stay active, it is also a good idea to stay safe. That means taking precautions by not exercising during extreme heat warnings and dangers, staying hydrated, and waiting until the temperature drops such as in the late evening after the sun has gone down or early morning before the sun is up to do any outside workouts. While there are opportunities when it may be somewhat safer to run, also remember you should look at the hour by hour forecast and factor in the humidity and heat index to determine whether it truly is safe.

Next, know when to stop. Don’t push yourself until you are at the point of suffering from a heat stroke or heat exhaustion. Stop before breathing gets difficult from the heat and know that when you feel physically and or mentally tired it is time to call it a day. Modify and adjust runs, exercises, and workouts if they are too challenging to do outside in the summer heat so you don’t do harm to your body.

Remember, summer is a great time to vary your workouts and do fun activities (that can be less strenuous) with the family that can count as workouts. Aquatic workouts and exercises are great for reducing muscle and joint inflammation or pain that may arise from excessive cardio or running (which can be worsened if rest days are not taken). Kayaking and canoeing are other great summer water activities that can allow you to cool off in the water while getting some exercise at the same time! Summer kickball, baseball, and sand volleyball leagues are also popular activities that can be fun and often are in the evening hours once the sun has gone down.

Relax, have fun, and modify your workouts based on the heat and local activities in your community.

~jj