You’re all geared up for your cold weather fitness routine – or just plain old fun in the snow. Is your body ready?

Nutrition is possibly more important to healthy exercise in the winter. Naturally, normal healthy eating and sleeping routines put you in good shape. But you can do more.

Complex carbohydrates are even more important in the cold months, and if you can have them warm, you help regulate your body temperature to fight the cold Mother Nature’s sending your way. Indulge your body’s natural desire for hearty foods in the winter, and enjoy oatmeal, pasta, toasted whole-grain sandwiches or bagels, and other carb-laden energy sources.

Staying hydrated deserves more attention in the winter, too. When you breathe in cold air, moisture in your body condenses and you exhale it, and sweat evaporates more quickly in cold, dry air. On top of that, studies have discovered that people don’t feel as thirsty in cold weather – even when they should. Start drinking water well before your workout and carry a bottle of cool (not cold) water or sports drink with you on your trek.

(Water also helps your skin, which is fighting a battle against dryness with the wind and the cold.)

To keep your energy level high, carry a healthy snack – an energy bar, nuts or raisins – with you. It can also be a welcome emergency supply if a slip or disruption leaves you outside longer than you planned.