16 Ways to Own your Winter Workout

17 May 2016

I really do understand how difficult it is to workout in winter. The cold weather has that “I don’t want to move” effect on us, and trust me I experience it too. But it is still so important for us to get a good amount of exercise in the colder months, to keep us fit and healthy, and to keep our joints and muscles mobile. Keeping up your fitness in winter also means that you don’t have to go to crazy lengths to get back into shape when the warm weather returns. It is always best to find a good balance - eating good quality wholefoods and exercising consistently will keep your immune system strong, and your body fit and healthy no matter what the weather is like outside. To help you out a little, here are some tips that I like to implement during Winter to keep me motivated and moving. I hope these tips help you too:

Be sure to warm up inside before a workout to get blood flowing to the muscles. Cold and stiff muscles are more prone to injury. Consider jumping jacks, a jog on the treadmill or cycling to get your nice and warm.

Find a workout buddy during the winter season. Having a partner is great for accountability and a little friendly competition.

Post progress pictures on social media or join an online fitness group where you'll find people with like-minded goals ready and willing to offer encouragement.
If you’re not the social media type, then take progress pics and stick them up on your wall to see how far you’ve come – this will motivate you to continue pushing for your goal

Try a new workout or find a class to join. Something new and different tends to create excitement and hold your interest longer.

Set a goal for the spring, maybe running a marathon, entering a fitness competition or taking a vacation. With a goal or event to work toward you'll be less likely to slack off.

Buy new training gear. New clothes and/or sneakers can often be a great incentive to exercise because you'll want to put your new gear to use.

Make it a point to get outside and get some sun. The sunshine and daylight will provide a boost in energy, and the vitamin D from the sun will help regulate the immune system.

Look for gym specials during the winter months. When gyms see a decline in visitors, they often offer incentives to get more people through the door.

Keep a food journal. Seeing the calories add up on paper may be just the motivation you need to stay away from the comfort food and get to the gym.

Avoid wearing baggy and comfy clothes all winter long. They won't tell the truth if you're eating too many desserts. Remember that you won't be able to wear those over-size sweaters and sweats forever.

Hire a trainer during the winter months. The investment alone may keep you motivated to get to the gym. And it's a trainer's job to help push you safely through a workout even when you might not feel up to it.

Consider buying yourself an alarm clock that simulates sunrise. It will begin to gradually light the room before the set time, allowing you to gently wake and start your day.

Another thing to consider is programming your thermostat to start heating up the house a few degrees before you wake. It's too tempting to stay in bed all warm and toasty when the house is cold and chilly.

Download an app for indoor workouts or log on to YouTube for a variety of choices. There are so many free workouts online, and trying something new in the comfort of your own home might be a great way to discover a new fitness passion.

Finally, if you have a dog, make a commitment to walk him/her during the winter months. While the cold weather might not be your ideal, it's wonderful for them. The pavement is cooler on their paws and they generally love the feel of the brisk, cool air.

I would love to hear what works for you too. Leave a comment below to share your Winter workout tips

Yours in Health Always,

Cara-Lisa

@caralishious

xoxo

Back