8 reasons to keep walking this winter

Christchurch might be cooling down, but that’s no reason to hit pause on your daily walk.

Walking in winter is one of the best things you can do for your health and well-being. The temperature drop often leads to a drop in activity, but staying active is crucial to both physical and mental health in the colder months when daylight is limited. Lack of sun exposure can lead to vitamin D deficiency and seasonal affective disorder (SAD). The NZ Heart Foundation recommend at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity daily. Here are eight reasons to keep walking:

1. Boost your mood
Shorter days can lead to winter blues. Walking increases serotonin and releases feel-good endorphins, helping you stay upbeat during the colder months.
2. Keep winter weight at bay
Walking for at least 30 minutes a day can help manage your weight, significantly improve cardiovascular health, bone strength, and reduce the risk of various chronic diseases.
3. Soak up natural light
Natural daylight, even in small doses, supports sleep patterns and mental clarity. Even a 20-minute walk can help regulate your body clock and improve sleep, thanks to exposure to natural light.
4. Keep your fitness ticking
Staying active is key to maintaining your fitness goals. Walking is a gentle yet effective way to stay in shape when high-intensity workouts feel like too much.
5. Enjoy the quiet beauty
Winter walks offer a unique beauty that other seasons can’t match and Canterbury winters have their own kind of magic – frosty landscapes, misty mornings, and the calm of quieter footpaths. It’s the perfect time for mindful, meditative movement.
6. Support your immune system
Regular moderate exercise like walking improves immune function, helping you fend off seasonal bugs.
7. Your dog still needs it
Rain or shine, your furry friend still craves daily adventures. Our dogs don’t care if it’s five degrees and foggy. A brisk walk in Hagley Park or a trot along the Heathcote River gives them the exercise and stimulation they need.
8. Stay social
A walk-and-talk with a friend is a low-key way to stay connected, and easier to commit to than a gym session. So go on – embrace the chill. With the right layers and a good pair of boots, winter walking is comfortable and invigorating – it might just be your new favourite winter ritual.