6 tips for winter walking safety

(NC) Enjoying a walk outdoors is one of the best ways to stay active and incorporate daily movement, especially when managing arthritis. But colder months can bring slippery sidewalks and freezing temperatures, making gentle walks a risky adventure. With a few simple precautions, you can stay safe and enjoy the outdoors all season long.

Here are six tips from Arthritis Society Canada to make walking in a winter wonderland as safe as possible:

1. Be weather wary. Prepare for snow and ice by keeping a shovel, sand or de-icing salt handy at home to clear your path and avoid slipping on your way out. Pick a well-maintained and frequently travelled route and choose the warmest time of day to go on your walk, to give ice a chance to melt.
2. Gear up for comfort and safety. Stay warm and cozy with insulated layers, socks, gloves and a hat. For footwear, invest in supportive, warm boots with good traction and a low, wide heel for better balance. On icy or snowy days, consider ice cleats or ice grippers on your shoes.
3. Warm up, then walk. Before you head out, do a quick warm-up to get your blood flowing. March in place and swing your arms or move your foot and ankle in circular motions to get your muscles ready for the cold.
4. Walk like a penguin. When navigating a slippery surface, channel your inner penguin and move slowly with small baby steps, like a shuffle. Bend your knees slightly to lower your center of gravity, keep your feet flat on the ground with toes pointed outward for better support and keep your arms out for stability—like penguin wings!
5. Use caution when exiting vehicles. Getting out of your car can be tricky on icy surfaces. Remember to move slowly, swing both feet out and plant them on the ground first and hold onto the doorframe as you carefully stand up.
6. Consider walking aids. Handrails on stairs and ramps are your friends and can help reduce the risk of a fall. If you use a cane, consider attaching an ice tip to the bottom for better grip. You could also try walking sticks, including hiking poles, for added stability and balance.

Find more arthritis-friendly tips at arthritis.ca.