We all know how easy it is to let fitness slide during winter. Thick meaty stews and delicious glasses of red wine quickly replace salads and juices as we struggle to keep warm during those cold winter nights. Although we may have good intentions, even the best laid plans go astray.
So, what should you keep in mind when thinking about staying in shape this winter? The trainers here at Move PTS have compiled this list of the top 10 tips to keep you motivated this winter.
1. Be solutions focused
Instead of avoiding the cold, embrace it. Getting outside for some fresh air and open space will be good for your mind as well as your body. Rug up and enjoy the experience, Make a list of common excuses (it’s too cold, it’s raining or it’s too dark) and think of solutions, like training indoors, taking a class, or exercising with a friend.
2. Go straight to the gym after work
If you train in the afternoon or evening, plan your day so that you don't have to go home before visiting the health club or gym. It's difficult to leave the house once you get home and take off your shoes! Pack your exercise gear the night before so you’re organised and are left with no excuses.
3. Make the most of every moment
Do you find the morning is too cold, and by evening you're too tired? Try to think of ways to integrate exercise into your day. At lunchtime, go for a brisk 20-minute walk. If you have a meeting with a colleague planned, consider taking it to the streets for a "walk and talk". Try a lunchtime boxing or yoga class. These breaks will warm you up and are a great way to revitalise your mind and get you ready for a productive afternoon.
4. Don't let a cold hold you back
Illness is a common setback to maintaining a winter exercise routine. One of the many benefits of regular exercise is a healthy and resilient immune system, which helps you recover faster, and makes you less likely to fall ill in the first place.
5. Book an active midwinter escape
A short trip to somewhere sunny can help you beat the winter blues and offers an excellent chance to get active as well. Find some fun activities to include in your trip such as mountain biking or kayaking. Revel in the winter chill and hit the slopes on a skiing or snowboarding escapade, or for those a little more daring, how about trying a cycling or hiking tour?
6. Run barefoot
Winter is a great time to try barefoot running on the beach – you’ll find more resistance in the sand after it’s rained. Try landing on the pads of your feet. According to a new study, runners who hit the ground first with the front of their foot are less likely to injure themselves, regardless of whether they run in sneakers or barefoot. It may be chilly to start with, but before long the blood will start pumping and you’ll be nice and warm.
7. Buddy up
Training with a friend keeps you honest. Knowing that someone is waiting for you motivates you to stick to your plans – even in the bleak mid-winter. Make a pact with a friend to encourage each other and commit to set training times. Step your workouts up a notch so you don’t have to be out in the elements for as long. Try 20 minutes of hill sprints interchanged with push-ups instead of an hour long workout. Shorter, more intense workouts can be the key to fitness breakthroughs.
8. Be positive
Most important of all is to approach your exercise routine with a positive mindset. There are some excellent advantages to exercising in winter. Winter is an ideal time to lose weight as your metabolism naturally speeds up to help keep you warm. Keep moving through winter and you'll be a step ahead when the warm weather arrives.
9. Stay warm
Winter is the perfect excuse to exercise or hang out in warm places. If your gym has a sauna or a steam room, why not use it? As long as you ensure you remain hydrated, a sweaty session can be just the detox you need.
10. Book some PT sessions
You’ve all heard the saying “summer bodies are made in winter”, well we know that it’s true! Winter is the perfect time to book in some Personal Training sessions here at Move PTS to jumpstart your bikini body – why don’t you book a session today!
Comments (0)