Way to go this winter: getting active over Christmas

The Festive season is fast approaching, followed by the traditional rush to exercise and, if you feel the need, to lose a little weight. The Inclusive Fitness Initiative (IFI) provides the perfect chance to get active this winter.

In fact, scientists say that despite cooler temperatures and nasty weather, winter is the best time of year to take up physical activity. Your body actually burns more calories when exercising in the cold as you need to move more to stay warm, and the more you move the more endorphins you generate.

So if you get exercising this winter, the happier you’ll be!

Whether you fancy taking up ice sledge hockey or trying your hand at wheelchair curling, there’s something for everyone.

IFI, a programme managed by the English Federation of Disability Sport (EFDS), has been running for a decade - it helps organisations provide disabled people with opportunities to engage in accessible physical activity.

If exercising outdoors this winter seems scary, use the EFDS website to find an IFI Mark gym or other facility.

There are now over 400 such facilities spread throughout the country, providing accessible changing rooms, training advice and equipment choice, with a range of IFI accredited fitness equipment as well as highly trained gym staff on site.

However, if you do brave the great outdoors you will feel the benefit, not just in terms of improved fitness but also mental wellbeing. Fresh air and that bright winter sun are the perfect remedy for conditions such as season affective disorder or other anxieties.

Just take care out there – be wary of icy, slippery surfaces and consider the accessibility of certain environments that may be affected by cold conditions, such as playing fields and footpaths.

Wrap up warm, remember to drink plenty of water… and away you go. Enjoy!

Get involved

To find your nearest accredited IFI gym, click here and choose between a map or list view

Follow IFI and their latest tweets on @Incl_fitness