Stay active and get outdoors this winter, even when the weather is freezing!

When the temperature drops suddenly - as it did last week - it is easy to swap our outdoor walks for cosy afternoons on the sofa!  But getting fresh air and staying active throughout the winter is one of the best ways to boost your mood, energy and confidence, especially in midlife.  And when spring is near, and we start peeling off layers and thinking about holiday sundresses, we will be even more grateful we kept active.  From countryside walks, a short stroll with the dogs or simply taking a longer route home, we want to feel warm, dry and comfortable.

I know I am guilty of this, staying indoors when it is cold, wet and muddy in my woods! Washing two white dogs down after is not easy!  But I have a ski holiday coming up and I need to up my cardio fitness, I have committed to walking more and I know that getting out in the winter months is good for my health.  Here's why ....

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Stay active and get outdoors this winter!

Why winter walks are important for wellbeing

The days are shorter but getting outside is even more important for our mental wellbeing. Light, movement and nature work together and even a short walk can lift your mood, ease stress, and help regulate your sleep–wake cycle during darker months. It’s one of the simplest, most accessible forms of self-care we have.

Walking is also wonderfully low-impact, making it ideal for midlife fitness. It’s gentle on joints, supports bone and muscle health, and can be adapted to any pace or terrain. No pressure, no intensity, just a steady, sustainable way to move your body.

On a personal note, walking really does help keep me grounded, if I am having a stressful day getting outside and breathing in the fresh air and connecting to nature, really helps reset my mind. And as hard as it is to walk away from my desk, once I have done it, I feel motivated again!  

Make sure you have the right gear for the cold weather

Our woods get really muddy and slippery so the right footwear makes all the difference. I’ve been exploring the adidas women’s outdoor shoes range recently, and their hiking boots offer exactly what you need for confident winter walking - solid traction to keep you steady, reliable waterproofing for muddy paths, and just the right amount of insulation to stay warm without overheating.

A good pair of boots can transform a walk from 'I’ll just pop out quickly' to 'I feel prepared for anything.' And that sense of security really encourages you to get outside more often during the darker months.

My go-to winter walking outfit has to be simple: I'll either have one of my tracksuits on or thermal leggings, a cosy base layer, a warm fleece or hoodie and a waterproof jacket, paired with supportive adidas walking boots. I also need to be able to slip into my boots really easily, I keep them at the back door ready to go!

Muddy winter walks in my woods help control my stress levels

How to stay motivated to get outdoors when it is freezing cold!

​Staying motivated during the colder months can be a challenge, but building a few simple habits really helps.

Walk with a friend if you can -  a bit of company always makes the miles feel easier, and it keeps you accountable.  There are no excuses if you are meeting someone else!

On solo days, maybe track your steps or set a gentle goal, I've been aiming to complete a hill on each walk, I know this is helping my cardio fitness. It doesn’t have to be perfect; it’s more about consistency and giving yourself a reason to get moving.

Having the right gear also removes so many excuses,  keeping my walking boots and waterproof, warm coat by the door helps me!  When you feel prepared, you’re far more likely to stick with the habit.

I've also just introduced a weighted vest to my walking routine!  I'm only. using a 3 kg one but it does add resistance and if I am out with my two dogs (the older one can be a bit slow now) the weighted vest increases the challenge.

And it all ties beautifully into my Countdown to Confident at 60 theme for 2026 - choosing small, everyday actions that support my health, mindset and wellbeing. Getting outside regularly is one of the foundations of feeling confident, energised and strong in midlife.

I've also added a weighted vest to my walks - I need to get ski fit!

Stay active in the winter!

Staying active through winter isn’t about perfection; it’s about consistency, confidence, and enjoying the crisp, fresh air.  I love watching the changing seasons, the autumn. leaves, the crisp frost on the trees in the midst of winter, and then get excited for the first wildflowers in early spring. 

Grab your coat, lace up your hiking boots, and step into winter with confidence.

Love Michelle xx

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Disclaimer: this blog post contains paid for links.