The holidays are now a memory, and we’re already half way through January.  How are you doing with your New Years Resolution? Two of the most common New Year resolutions are getting fit and losing weight.  Unfortunately, the New Year comes at a time when going outside for an afternoon walk requires waterproofing from head to toe.  The dark, rainy days, or the heavy snow which we had this year can make it difficult to get enough exercise.  This year, you can keep your New Years resolution with a great rain jacket, some snow play and a gym membership.
If you have lived Chilliwack, or anywhere in southwestern BC long enough, you know what to expect each winter- rain with the occasional snowfall.  We can try to predict the weather, but we cannot control it.  Going outside for fresh air is important all year long, regardless if it is rainy day in February or a sunny day in July.  Instead of hibernating from the winter weather, dress appropriately and enjoy a walk outside- even if you get a little wet.  Regular outdoor exercise will help keep you slim this winter, and help prevent the winter blues.  If you work during the daylight hours, go for an evening walk in well lit areas, or take advantage of the weekends to get outside.
If walking or jogging in the rain is unthinkable, take a day trip to a winter wonderland.  At the local hills, such as Manning Park and Mount Seymour, you can spend the day alpine skiing, snowboarding, Nordic skiing or snowshoeing.  Tubing is also great exercise, provided you need to walk back up the hill.  Snowshoeing, cross country skiing and tubing are also wonderful ways to enjoy the snow we may get in the valley, while burning a few extra calories.
Finally, exercising indoors is a surefire way to keep your New Years resolution during any type of weather.  If you are a fair-weather walker, or like having the option to work hard while staying warm and dry, access to a gym is a must to keeping in shape over the winter months.  Joining classes at a gym or working with a trainer will help you to meet your fitness goals over the winter months.
This New Years, keep your resolution to get more exercise, regardless if it is raining, snowing, or a crisp sunny day.  Dress for the weather, find snow, or break a sweat indoors to keep active this winter.
Tanja Shaw is the owner of Ascend Fitness Coaching, a private training studio.  Tanja and her team of expert fitness professionals works to inspire and educate Chilliwack residents to make positive and power changes in their lives through physical fitness and sound nutrition.  For more fitness tips go to www.ascendfitnesscoaching.com.