One of the healthiest things you can do to manage swollen, uncomfortable varicose veins is to maintain a regular exercise program. However, that can easier said than done when the chillier winter temperatures keep you indoors for long stretches. If you are having trouble getting moving this winter, the staff at the Vein Center of Florida & South Baldwin has a few suggestions for winter activities that will keep you moving and benefit your varicose veins.
Walking
While you may need to move your walking workouts indoors for a few more weeks, there are places you can find to put steps on your pedometer. Malls are a great place to walk, especially in the early morning hours before the stores officially open and the shoppers arrive. If you want to take your walking workouts to the local gym or fitness center, opt for walking the track or hop on the elliptical machine that will work your calf muscles without putting undue strain on your lower leg veins.
Bicycling
You may not feel like hopping on your mountain bike this time of year, but the local fitness center likely has stationary bikes for your use. Choose a recumbent bike that allows you to watch television or read during your workout. Or enroll in a spinning class that will keep you moving and whip those legs into beautiful shape.
Rowing
This is the perfect time of year to try out that rowing machine sitting in the corner of the gym. It may not be a glamorous way to exercise, but the rowing action will give a full workout better than just about any other cardio machine at the gym. While you may think the exercise focuses solely on the arms, you will be surprised at just how good your legs will feel after just a few rowing sessions.
Swimming
You may not want to dive into your neighborhood outdoor pool or the ocean this time of year, but indoor pools give you the same good workout in a comfortable environment. Find out when your local pool offers lap swimming and take advantage of that time to get a full body workout. Water exercise offers the additional benefit of buoyancy, which can provide welcome relief for painful varicose veins.
Yoga and Tai Chi Classes
Winter is a great time to enroll in a class to learn or perfect your yoga or Tai Chi skills. These disciplines teach balance, flexibility and strength in every workout. There has even been an association between Tai Chi and improved golf games for some Floridians, which will get you ready for the spring season on the green.
If pain and swelling with your varicose veins is keeping you from participating in winter workouts, perhaps now is the time to pursue treatment for those uncomfortable, unsightly vessels. At Vein Center of Florida & South Baldwin, we offer a wide range of vein treatments that allow us to customize your procedure to your unique needs and concerns. All of our treatments are performed on an outpatient basis and involve little to no discomfort or downtime. To learn more, contact the Vein Center of Florida & South Baldwin at 800-910-8346.