Just because it is wintertime does not mean it is time to stop exercising. You certainly want to keep those gains you have been making. What it does mean is that some extra steps may be necessary to prevent winter injuries. Or the cold weather may necessitate a change in venue for exercise (move indoors).

For those who enjoy outdoor activities even in the winter, a few key steps can be useful to prevent injuries.

1. Make sure to dress appropriately for the weather. It is often wise to dress in layers. Typically as you get the blood pumping you will get warm and feel the desire to take a layer off.
2. Take the time to warm up and/or stretch. Muscles tend to feel stiffer and tighter in the cold. Thus to limit the chance for muscle strains it is important to slowly warm up the muscles in some way. This may require a few extra minutes before you can fully hit your stride with the activity. Additionally physical exercise in the cold carries some of the same strain to the body as the heat. The intensity of your workout may need to be slightly less.
3. Stay hydrated. Even though it may be cold, and you are not sweating the same as during the summer does not mean you are not losing water. You are expelling plenty of moisture breathing. So drink up.
4. Have the proper footwear on. Slips and falls due to an incorrect shoe choice while exercising in the cold can result in injury. Do not let a slip and fall take you out of the game.
5. If the weather is hazardous (too cold or slick) take the exercise plan inside for a day or two. No need to get injured because the weather creates unfavorable conditions.

Keep moving with your exercise goals even when it is cold outside. Take these steps to prevent winter injuries and enjoy exercise regardless of the weather.