There are plenty of excuses to skip your workout and do, well, nothing. However, it’s February. Before you know it, you’ll be by the pool or heading to the beach. In the meantime, get yourself in shape and looking – and feeling – better with some outdoor walking.

Here are some tips to follow:

Mother Nature. Depending on where you are, weather – especially cold, wintery weather – can play a factor in where you can walk. Look for areas that are without ice, snow or any other obstacles.   

Feet First. Invest in a good pair of socks, preferably a non-itchy wool type or a pair that is a combination of wool and wicking polypropylene. Invest in good trail-running shoes that are flexible, yet water- and wind-resistant (many are waterproof, as well). For walking on ice and snow, you may need additional traction devices such as slip-on cleats that can give you a grip. 

Dress Up. When you’re walking in cold weather, you need to dress in layers that will wick away moisture and keep out the wind and rain. Your base layer should be a wicking fabric that keeps your skin dry and prevents that clammy feeling; the insulating layer can be a fleece (or wool) vest (or shirt) that can be worn or removed depending on how cold you feel; and the windproof and water-resistant outer layer should be a hooded jacket to keep out the elements. Avoid cotton or cotton-blend pants because when they get wet, they stay wet. 

Safety First! If you’re walking at night, try to pick up some tiny reflectors that you can put on your clothing. Know the area where you are walking and, as we mentioned earlier, make sure that it’s suitable for walking. Also, if you can, find a walking buddy so you’re not alone. Always bring a cell phone along – you never know when you might need it.

Add Some Hill. Walking up a hill is an excellent way to increase your heart rate and challenge your body in different ways. Find a medium-sized hill nearby and walk up it as fast as you can. Walk back down and repeat several times. 

Go Faster! Sometimes when you’re walking, you slow down without even realizing it. Make sure you’re in your target heart rate zone by monitoring your pace and walking briskly. (Tip: Pretend that you are catching a bus and have to walk as fast as you can to make it.)

Spice It Up. Vary your workouts to avoid plateaus and continue to challenge your body. Alternate between longer, slower workouts and shorter, harder workouts. If you can, try to incorporate strength training into your fitness regime to keep your muscles strong and avoid injury.

Can’t Go Outside? No Problem! If you need to stay indoors and still want to exercise, there are other ways to stay fit. If you have a gym membership, use it! Hop on the treadmill and get walking. (Tip: Put the incline on at least one percent so you are actually walking or else it’s the treadmill doing the work for you.) Many schools have indoor tracks that are open to the public or you can pop in a workout DVD at home. 

Get walking to a healthier lifestyle!