It’s that time of year again—the temperature is dropping and so is the motivation to stay active. The cold months prove to be a bit more challenging for getting in a workout because getting outside to run in the snow isn’t for everyone.
Here are some tips on how to stay fit and motived in the winter.
Get New Workout Gear. Treat yourself to some good new winter workout gear as extra motivation. Buying some new sneakers or some bright new yoga pants can surprisingly boost your motivation and confidence.
Revisit Your Fitness Goals. Remember those fitness goals that you made last summer? Did you reach them?
Revisiting and reassessing your goals can encourage you to hit the pavement. Give yourself some new goals, whether it be running that 5-kilometer race or losing 10 pounds. Setting yourself achievable and realistic goals can allow you to focus on the results and help you get active.
Find a Fitness Buddy. It’s the oldest rule in the book, but it works. Round up a friend to join you for a sweaty session at your local spin class. Getting a fitness buddy not only makes you stay accountable for your workouts, but it can also make you train at a higher intensity.
Try a New Class. One of the hardest things about exercising in winter is battling the cold temperatures. Why not spice up your workout with a new class at your local gym. There are plenty of indoor fitness options you can try that are lots of fun and range from low to high intensity.
Try a Zumba, Pilates, or Body Combat class this winter. Fitness classes are also a great way to meet new people.
Pump Up Your Playlist. Add some new music to your electronic device and get moving. Nothing is more motivating than good music. Try making a 30–40 minute high-intensity playlist and encourage yourself to work out to the whole list. You'll be surprised at how much it boosts your energy levels.
Sign Up for a Winter Sport. One cool thing about the winter is the variety of sports you can sign up for. Joining a winter sports team is a great way to get active and meet new people.
Try figure skating or ice hockey. Signing up for a winter sport will also give you some routine in your fitness plan by making you attend training once or twice per week.
Get a Trainer. Nothing is more likely to get you to the gym in the colder months than knowing that your perfectly toned and enthusiastic personal trainer is waiting for you. You also know that canceling your session is only going to add three extra sets of burpees to your next session—this tip is a guaranteed winner!
Think of the Benefits. If there’s ever a good time to stick those photos of you looking your best on your fridge, that time is now. Reminding yourself of the benefits of a good fitness plan and healthy living can help you with your goals and inspire you to stay on track.
Get a Pinterest Account. If you haven’t been on the photo-sharing website Pinterest before, you will find that it’s a gold mine of motivational quotes, fitness pictures, and healthy recipes to keep your goals in check. Sign up and share your pins with your friends and fitness buddies to stay motivated.
Reward Yourself. Let’s face it, we’re all human, and getting active in winter is hard work. Try rewarding yourself with a nice warm, healthy meal after your workout or treat yourself to a massage. Rewarding yourself is a great way to keep your focus in the right direction and make yourself feel good about your fitness choices.
Eco18 is a collective of creative-writing individuals from different backgrounds with a common goal—to live a healthier, more natural lifestyle. Their combined expertise, humor, and opinions explore green and sustainable in a practical, fun way. www.eco18.com
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