Your Health's Journal

• Regardless of where you live or what time of year it is, the weather is always a factor to consider when walking. Walking is a very popular form of exercise that most people prefer to do outdoors rather than on a treadmill. But this means that the weather will require you to wear appropriate clothing and to take the proper precautions as well.

• Whether it’s wet and rainy or hot and humid, here are some preparations and measures you can take to ensure an optimal and safe walking experience.

Heat

• Wet and windy conditions are usually what come to mind when someone considers “hazardous” weather, but the heat is something that is often overlooked. A bright, sunny
  day with temperatures soaring in the 90s and up can be very harmful if you spend a prolonged period of time walking outside.

• To prepare for hot conditions, you should make sure that you bring sufficient water to stay hydrated and wear light-colored, preferably sweat-wicking, clothing. It’s also a good idea to apply a high-SPF sunscreen, use UV-protective sunglasses and to wear a hiking hat.

Cold

• While most people tend to leave the walking for spring and summer seasons, there are those who like to walk during the colder months. Walking in colder weather can greatly
  increase the sensation of cold on your body due to the increase in the windchill factor. The evaporation of sweat can drop your overall body temperature as well.

• A drop in temperature can lead to serious conditions such as hypothermia and frostbite. In order to walk safely in the cold, you will need to make sure that you dress in multiple
  layers of windproof or water-resistant clothing. You should also wear wicking polyester pants but no cotton or denim pants. Be sure to wear head and face protection as well, such as a beanie, earmuffs or a balaclava.

Rain & Snow

• For rainy conditions, you will need to wear multiple layers with a water-resistant outer layer to prevent getting wet. This outer layer should have a sufficiently large hood as
  well to protect your head. You will also need slip-resistant rain boots to prevent the risk of any slip-related injuries.

• For snowy weather, it’s a good idea to wear some insulating thermal underwear and multiple water-resistant layers. Any sort of beanie and ear protection is recommended as well. Snow can be very difficult to walk through, so you will need to get some sturdy snow boots that are waterproof.

• Walking through any sort of wet weather conditions is usually not recommended, but if you are looking to complete your walking routine, be sure to wear insulated clothing and
  the appropriate boots, and be sure to take enough rest breaks to avoid becoming overly fatigued.

• Dear Internet users, it’s not easy to walk when it’s too hot or too cold. But as you adapt to your environment, you end up wearing the best outfits you can find. Walking is practiced by children, teenagers, the young and the old alike. No matter what your age, you’re called upon to practice it if you don’t mind. At the end of the day, the path is in front of you: walk it?

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• See you soon!

• Anne-Vasthi