It’s easy to pack on the pounds in the wintertime, and if you already suffer from chronic neck or back pain, the extra weight can make it worse. Fortunately, a chiropractor from Walch Chiropractic Center PC in Leeds, AL, can help. Serving clients throughout the Birmingham area, their team specializes in finding the precise spinal adjustment that will relieve pain. Read on for a few tips to prevent excessive weight gain—and additional pain—this winter.

5 Tips From Your Local Chiropractor for Staying Fit This Winter

1. Get Moving

You don’t need a gym membership to get regular exercise. Since the winter weather in Alabama is fairly mild, all you need is a good pair of walking shoes and a light jacket. Walking is the easiest way to get moving, especially if you’re not used to working out just yet. Try to walk daily, and invite the whole family to join you, so everyone can keep the pounds off and bond at the same time.

2. Try a Winter Sport

If you have the means to do a bit of traveling, head up north and try skiing, snowboarding, or snowshoeing. The cold winter air is invigorating, and winter sports are a great way to get some physical activity while trying something new at the same time.

3. Take Up Swimming

If you are unable to do high-impact exercises, have you considered trying swimming? It’s a great way to stay in shape, and if you join your local YMCA or health club, you can do it year round as long as there’s an indoor pool.

4. Opt for the Stairs

There are countless ways to incorporate more physical activity into your everyday life. It’s as simple as always taking the stairs and parking in the far end of the lot whenever you go shopping.

5. Watch What You Eat

It’s okay to indulge every once in a while, and the holidays provide tons of opportunities to do just that. Once the new year starts, though, go back to watching what you eat. You might be craving comfort foods, but your body will thank you if you stick to lean protein, healthy fat, and lots of fresh produce.

Maintaining your weight can prevent back pain from worsening, but it won’t actually treat it. If you need regular spinal adjustments, turn to Walch Chiropractic Center PC in Leeds, AL. Visit their website to learn more about the ways they can treat back and neck pain, and call (205) 699-4433 to make an appointment with a chiropractor today.