The winter season in Wisconsin can be a challenging time to stay active, with colder temperatures, slippery conditions, and fewer daylight hours. But staying active is one of the best ways to improve your mental and physical health all year long. Physical activity has numerous mental health benefits, such as better sleep, reduced anxiety/improved stress levels, and improved cognitive thinking. In addition, physical activity can play an important role in improving balance, increasing muscle and bone strength, lowering risk of certain chronic diseases and cancers, lowering blood pressure, and managing weight. There is also new research that suggests that physical activity is good for the immune system. 

The Physical Activity Guideline for Americans recommends adults get at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity a week, such as 30 minutes a day, 5 days a week. Adults also need 2 days of muscle-strengthening activity each week. There are many ways to stay active, even in the winter months. This includes making time for the outside during good weather days, bundling up for nature walks, enjoying winter activities (skating, snowshoeing, etc.), participating in workouts online, volunteering in the community, and doing chores around the house. 

The Sheboygan County Activity and Nutrition Coalition (SCAN) recently created a guide to many of the free, indoor walking opportunities in the local area. https://drive.google.com/file/d/1RLrjfFX_DgpHdFenmTH-4TxfSOEe2liG/view?usp=sharing
The state UW-Madison Extension’s Health and Well-Being Program offers free virtual StrongBodies classes throughout the year by trained facilitators. Go here to learn more about the virtual programs offered: https://health.extension.wisc.edu/strongbodies/participate-in-strongbodies/#virtualprograms