We’re not going to lie, our motivation to hit the gym during the winter months can be low- very low! There are however, a few things you can do to help you stay active during the gloomy winter days and make exercising a little easier.
1) Get some fresh air.
We know it’s a little easier said than done, but embracing the cold will do you wonders. Whether you’re heading out for a run, bike ride or doing something decidedly more wintery such as skiing, the great outdoors will give you a much needed energy boost.
2) Switch up your workout routine.
The lead up to Christmas gets chaotic for everyone, making exercising even harder. If you’re finding that you’re heading to work earlier and leaving later, meaning you’re skipping
the gym, it might help to break down your exercise throughout the day. Getting off a stop earlier and walking the rest of the way to work, or heading for a quick run or brisk stroll at lunch may be much more manageable than hitting the gym at 9pm at night. Plus you won’t feel guilty about those missed gym sessions.
3) Find an exercise buddy
Let’s face it, exercising with a friend is a lot easier than doing it yourself. You can motivate each other and you’ll also find it harder to cancel that early morning run!
4) Set an end goal
Are you looking to get in shape for the coming summer, training for a marathon or sports event? Or are you simply wanting to simply stay fit and healthy? Whatever it is you’re trying to achieve, it’s always a good idea to set yourself a goal so you have something to work towards throughout the winter months.
It’s also good to bear in mind that regular exercise boosts your immune system, making fighting colds a lot easier, and it can also lessen the chances of you suffering from seasonal affective disorder (SAD)- two good reasons to stay active this winter.