Exercising in the winter requires just a little bit more dedication and effort than summer months, here's 8 ways to beat winter's exercise blues!
1
Be sure to have fun by choosing activities (dancing, walking, basketball, bootcamp, walking, spin, boxing) you like and enjoy! Whatever gets you moving!
2
If you prefer staying at home on dark nights, why not do a fast and furious 30min training session at lunchtime!
3
Allow your body to recover if you have a cold or flu. You will not reap any rewards by exercising when actually you should be resting. Indulge in this time to think about new exercises to incorporate into your future workouts.
4
Keep hydrated at all times! You'd be amazed at the power of central heat to dehydrate. Remember exercise performance can be severely limited in those suffering from dehydration so drink drink and drink!
5
Restock energy levels after a hard workout to maximise recovery time. Chose a carbohydrate based snack – our favorites include an energy boosting banana, ryvita with cream cheese or glass of fresh fruit juice!
6
Self-Talk – The "voice" inside your head. Make sure your self talk is positive and encouraging, not negative, self punishing or defeatist when times get tough.
7
Try a pedometer if your just coming back to, or new to exercise. Pedometers are cheap and easy to use. Best of all they help you keep track of how active you are. 7 - 10,000 steps a day is a good start to aim for and build on.
8
Exercise is on of those rare things where the hype actually meets the reality. Next to not smoking, getting regular physical activity is arguably the best thing you can do for your health. So wrap up in light layers and remember exercising lowers the risk of heart disease, diabetes, high blood pressure, osteoporosis, stroke and certain cancers. Plus it help keeps weight in check, helps control stress and gives a boost to your mood. Best of all it doesn't take marathon training to see real health gains. Now get out there!
