With the temperature dropping and the winter season beginning this month, many of us will have trouble staying motivated to exercise and stay in shape this time of year.

There are many options to exercise and stay in shape both indoors and outdoors. Exercising outdoors does require more planning and more safety precautions than during warmer months.

Here are six winter exercise tips to keep in mind:

1. First and foremost, set fitness and health goals to keep you motivated.

2. Dress in layers, starting with a lightweight moisture-wicking garment next to the skin, followed by an insulating layer of synthetic material or fleece that will also absorb moisture, followed by a wind-resistant jacket if needed that is semi-porous to let moisture escape. As you warm up, you can remove a layer so you dont become overheated.

3. Wear shoes that have good traction to prevent falls on snow or patches of ice. Be safe, and dont go outside if it is icy.

4. Stay hydrated. You will still perspire as your body warms up from exercise in the cold weather.

5. Head into the wind during the first half of your walk or run, and come back with it during the second half. This will help you avoid becoming chilled from perspiration and the wind chill factor.

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Stay in shape: Beat the winter blues - Lincoln Journal Star