This time of year it becomes harder and harder to motivate yourself to stay active and to focus on your health.  There are a multitude of benefits to staying active throughout the winter months, including the benefits to your overall health and wellness.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have outlined the benefits of physical activity for people of all ages and abilities and is by no means exhaustive:

• Control your weight
• Reduce your risk of cardiovascular disease
• Reduce your risk for type 2 diabetes and metabolic syndrome
• Reduce your risk of some cancers
• Strengthen your bones and muscles
• Improve your mental health and mood
• Improve your ability to do daily activities and prevent falls, if you're an older adult
• Increase your chances of living longer  (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention)

Winter is a great time to begin moving more, indoors or out.  Try new activities that interest you, like skiing or snowshoeing.  The Superior Outdoor Adventure Program can rent you skis or snowshoes so you can try before you buy! The great outdoors not your thing?  Try logging some miles on the treadmills or the indoor track at the Marcovich Wellness Center.  Not a runner?  Not a problem! Jump in the pool and swim some laps or join our aquacise classes and get some exercise that way!  Just want to learn more?  Take part in the Well-being Wednesdays Series to gain some great tips and tricks to help improve your overall wellness.

Still not convinced that increasing your physical activity will improve your overall health and wellness?

According to the American Heart Association, "More of us are overweight.  Adult (and childhood) obesity/overweight level continues to increase: 65% of all Adults are obese or overweight.  It is more difficult today to create an active lifestyle.  People are less active due to technology and better mass transportation."(American Heart Association)

Take advantage of the opportunities to get active and increase your activity level.  Campus Recreation can help to point you in the right direction when looking for opportunities to stay active this winter.  www.uwsuper.edu/recreation