The Joys of Winter Walking

Most days at lunch I try to get outside for a quick walk. Working for a large company with vast grounds, they have a nice walking trail – measuring just over one mile – or two if you throw in the loop around the back parking lot.  A number of employees take advantage of this nice benefit.

The other day I ventured out into a sunny but cold 20 degree day.  I was surprised to find the sun already casting long shadows at noon! That’s December in Minnesota. 

This is the time of year that many of my lunch time walking colleagues have started to switch to walking indoors. Our company’s internal web site provides maps of both the outdoor walking paths and the indoor routes – with distances for each. 

Please – indoor walking?  I realize many enjoy walking indoors.  A trip to Rosedale or HarMar will prove that.  But as I see it, it’s only early December; I can’t give up now. Besides, it’s not too cold yet. It will certainly get worse! 

To be truthful, I enjoy the looks my work colleagues give me when they see me in my coat, hat, scarf, and gloves heading out to brave the elements. My rule is that you can’t legally complain about the long, cold winters until late February – or at least after the holiday season. 

Don’t get me wrong, I’m no snow freak – no winter camping for me.  But I cross country ski occasionally, ice skate (outdoors of course), and enjoy walking almost daily.  Lately I’ve come to appreciate shoveling of all sorts.  I find roof raking the best for upper body strength and conditioning.  Winter in Minnesota – it’s like your own private fitness center, without the fees, and no lines at any of the machines.

Most days you can dress warm enough to fend off the elements.  On even the bitterest days, I find that if you dress in layers (but you knew that), and cover your exposed skin, you can enjoy a bit of fresh air – and possibly some elusive winter sunshine. 

But watch your footing!  A few years back I slipped on ice while walking the dog.  The result was whiplash and two fractured vertebrae.  Amazingly I didn’t miss too many dog walks, but I had to take it pretty slow for quite some time.  I’m now as cautious as my 81 year old mother when I see ice.

Cold, snow, and ice aside – I’m looking forward to me winter walks.  Hope to see you out there!