There is nothing more frustrating than hearing about how it's just, "too difficult to exercise (or play) outdoors during winter...". With a little preparation and planning, winters in New England can be enjoyed by people of all ages! We all know that winters in MA can be cold and wet, so dress accordingly! Moisture-wicking materials have become much more affordable and accessible in recent years. These products can be found in garments of all sizes that will cover your body from head to toe and are often made from ultra-thin, recycled materials. When layered correctly (I suggest avoiding cottons), thoughtfully planned clothing can protect you for hours from the elements, while keeping you warm and relatively dry. So there it is...another excuse-causing myth debunked! Get out there and sweat!
Ran 11.25 miles through the roads of Rochester, on Christmas Day (found time between the 7am opening of presents and 1pm dinner at in-laws)! The weather, during my 110 minute session, spanned the gamut... from wispy clouds accompanying the sun to wind-driven snow squalls. Temperatures allowed for a simple base-layer under a brightly-colored road jacket. A set of fleece gloves, ear warmers, and a pair of Injini socks also helped keep the moisture from causing a chill. For hydration/nutrition, I ran with a 12oz. (too much) bottle of Propel and a 3oz. pouch of pure blended fruit. Earbuds and a pair of sunglasses added to my comfort...which brings me to my latest rant...
There is nothing more frustrating than hearing about how it's just, "too difficult to exercise (or play) outdoors during winter...". With a little preparation and planning, winters in New England can be enjoyed by people of all ages! We all know that winters in MA can be cold and wet, so dress accordingly! Moisture-wicking materials have become much more affordable and accessible in recent years. These products can be found in garments of all sizes that will cover your body from head to toe and are often made from ultra-thin, recycled materials. When layered correctly (I suggest avoiding cottons), thoughtfully planned clothing can protect you for hours from the elements, while keeping you warm and relatively dry. So there it is...another excuse-causing myth debunked! Get out there and sweat!
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You might have seen the commercial, or a version of the one I've added below. If not, it introduces the NFL campaign that hopes to encourage children across the nation to be physically active for 60 minutes each day in order to reverse the trend of childhood obesity. While the National Football League is promoting this concept as a remedy to curb increased rates of obesity in children, it remains important to note that a sedentary lifestyle beyond childhood years can become an issue impacting adult health too? SO...this blog asks everybody a simple question: How do you play? Let the world read your description of the physical activities that you enjoy most during your "play" time, regardless of your age! Here's my first entry... I'm a thankful man! You see, I have the fortunate ability to ride my bicycle to and from my job. In other words, I get to "play" on my way to work...and yesterday, that's exactly what I did! The weather was excellent (especially being December). The brisk, morning air provided an excellent way to start my day, while the afternoon's ride graced me with winds at my back, upward of 55 degrees! My trip was just over 5 miles each way and took about 20 minutes. That's a total of 40 minutes of moderate to vigorous physical activity, done while preparing for and reflecting upon the day's events! Now I know that's not quite 60, but that's not really the point...is it? Anyway...that's how I "play"! |
Bio...Rochester has been my home for more than 30 years. I currently live in town with my beautiful wife, 3 healthy children, and 2 English Bulldogs. Archives
February 2014
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