HEALTH AND WELLBEING: Stay active during winter

AS the days draw in and temperatures drop, you may be tempted to hang up your exercise gear and hibernate. Don't! Stay active throughout winter to beat those seasonal blues and feel on top of the world.

Regular exercise will make you feel more energetic, which should make it a little easier to get out of your warm bed on cold, dark mornings. Your body’s defences will also benefit. Moderate exercise can help boost your immune system, thereby reducing the risk of coughs and colds.

If the shorter days are affecting your mood, being active can improve your sense of wellbeing. You may be tempted to eat more during the colder months. Exercising will help you manage your weight better and keep your body in shape.

Stay Safe - If you're exercising after dark, keep to well-lit areas and wear bright and reflective clothing. Ideally, exercise with a friend, but always tell someone where you’re going. Avoid listening to music while running outdoors. Not hearing what’s going on around you can make you vulnerable. If rain or ice is making exercise dangerous, do it another day. The weather might be better tomorrow, but an injury could take weeks to heal.