How do I exercise when it's so COLD out there?????

Living in New Jersey, I understand cold.  When it's cold, there are certain precautions you need to take if you're going to go outside to exercise.   

First of all, you need to know how to dress.  Bundle up, but also be aware that you're going to sweat (yes, even in the cold, you'll sweat), so wear layers.  There are some light thermals that can be purchased at a decent price (I found some at Target).  Normally, I can get away with two layers of thermal shirts and a parka.  If it's in the teens, I'll add a sweatshirt.

My tolerance for the cold is pretty high when it comes to my legs.  I can get by without thermal bottoms as long as the temperature stays in the 20s or above, but I try to wear a heavier legging that covers my leg entirely.  Heavy socks are a must, also.

During the winter, it's hard not to wear a parka, but there are some days when it's actually mild enough to wear a heavy sweatshirt over the thermals.  I have a great sweatshirt that has a fake fur lining in the front and back that keeps me warm in the low 30s.  

Remember that you're going to be breathing a bit heavier since you'll be exercising, and you don't need to freeze out your lungs, so make sure your nose and mouth are covered.  A scarf will do.  If you get too warm, you could pull the scarf down for a few minutes at a time to get that fresh air in.

One of the most important things to wear in the cold is a hat.  Just make sure it covers your ears.  Trust me on this.  I've gone out of the house without my ears covered and made it 1/2 a block before I realized that wasn't a smart move.

Gloves.....'nuff said.

OK, that's what you can do if there's no snow on the ground.  Snow is a totally different story.   Snow is slippery; snow is usually covering ice.  The goal here is to not kill yourself while exercising, so I wouldn't recommend walking outside when there's snow on the ground (or at least on the sidewalks).  This is where your Wii, Xbox or VCR/DVD player comes in handy.  Wii and Xbox have some great games that help you keep up with the exercise.  Zumba, Sports Resort, The Biggest Loser Challenge, Wii Active Challenge....all great for inside.  There are also some great DVDs to motivate you.  Amazon.com has a variety of DVDs from Leslie Sansone that give you a walking workout right in your own living room.   

I've mentioned this before and it's worth mentioning again:  moving is important.  Jog in place, walk in place, dance to your ipod shuffle....the only mistake you can make is to not move.  

Only you know your tolerance for the cold.  Common sense is key to how you dress if you're going to venture outside in the winter.  If you can't stand the cold, then by all means find a way to get your exercise in by doing it at home.