Well as much as I hate to say it the cooler weather is here…with the dark chilly mornings and the early sunsets it can be difficult to find the motivation to stick with your daily workouts. Need some tips?
1. Find a workout partner
Partners, whether in person or virtual can help keep you accountable for sticking to your workouts. You could walk together or if you’re exercising at home try a live class together.
2. Wake up to a warm house
If you get up early in the morning to work out, be sure to set your thermostat so the house is not freezing when your alarm goes off. It’s too tempting to snuggle up and snooze your way through your workout if your house is cold.
3. Exercise during your lunch break
During the cold months we drive to work in the dark and drive home with the sun setting. This can be very non-motivating! A brisk lunchtime walk outside or a 20-minute power walk through the mall can be a great way to fit in your daily activity.
4. Do it for your mental health
Many people find it hard to stay positive during the long, cold winter months. Being active and feeling good about doing something for yourself can be just what you need. In no time you will feel less stressed and more relaxed!
5. Dress Appropriately and be prepared
If you’re planning on working out outside be sure to check the weather and dress appropriately. If you know what weather conditions to expect you will mentally prepare yourself and won’t back out because it’s too cold or too windy. Layering your clothing to keep warm and dry is important! You want a moisture wicking first layer, a layer of fleece and then a thin waterproof layer.
Don’t forget that being active during the colder months doesn’t have to mean sweating it out at the gym…you can dance to your favourite music, walk at the mall or your local indoor track, lift soup cans while watching your favourite tv show and even vacuuming the house gets you up and moving! Whatever you choose, just continue to stay active during the colder months and reap the benefits of better immunity, improved mood and increased energy. Before you know it, we’ll be back to the long sunny days of summer!
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