Jon Stanton

I receive an award this evening from Michigan Governor Jennifer Granholm for my efforts to inspire Michigan citizens to live healthy and active lives. For me, the award itself is not what's important - it's the doors that it will hopefully help open so I can continue to reach more people with the message that you can enjoy food and be healthy at the same time. There will be a press release available about my award soon, and I'll be sure to post it here on the website if you would like to read it.

Yesterday, I had the opportunity to speak to Department of Community Health employees in Lansing. The DCH sponsors a "Walking Club" at one of their locations downtown, and I focused on ways to make walking part of your regular routine and tips for maintaining a walking program during Michigan's crazy winters. I want to share some of those tips with you:

• It's NEVER too cold to walk. Walking when it's cold actually burns more calories because your body has to work harder to stay warm. So, don't believe the lie that it's "too cold" (obviously pay attention to weather reports if it's dangerously cold).
• Find an area that is safe and relatively sheltered. In other words, don't walk on icy sidewalks - find somewhere that does a good job of keeping the sidewalks clear. In Lansing, I tend to seek out state property - such as the Capitol Complex - because the state does a better job of clearing sidewalks than the city.
• Wear layers. I start with Under Armor, then a "long underwear" type of shirt over that, then a sweatshirt or sweater, with my coat being the final piece. The Under Armor (or something like it) is especially important because you will sweat if you're walking briskly, even if it's 10 below. It's important that the bottom layer wisks away moisture - otherwise, you will feel chilled.
• If the thought of walking outside completely saps all your motivation, then consider a treadmill. Personally, I hate treadmills. I do not enjoy feeling like a hamster. But, if you like the treadmill and it keeps you walking - GO FOR IT.
• When outside conditions are just too extreme, or if you can't find somewhere safe to walk after dark in the evenings, consider going to a local high school (many stay open to allow you to walk), mall, or even a "big-box" store like Meijer. The first winter that I was working on losing weight, I walked several evenings each month around the inside perimeter of Meijer. Notify the manager first so they don't think you've lost your marbles.
• MOST IMPORTANTLY...NO EXCUSES!! Cold weather is NOT an excuse to become inactive. Commit to moving your body for at least half an hour each day - no matter what the weather is like. You will feel so much better and have much better health during the winter months.

As always, if you need extra motivation or have questions, feel free to leave a comment, or click on the "Contact" tab to send me an email. I'm here to help, so please - just ask!