
The winter months can be a challenging time to stick to an exercise plan. The weather is colder, the daylight hours are shorter and other priorities can make it hard to establish a routine. While exercise in winter may be tough, it is very important for health.
Here are some tips to stay fit and motivated through winter:
Have an exercise program
An exercise program should include both cardiovascular and resistive exercises. Cardiovascular exercise is a type of exercise that focuses on increasing your heart rate and building your endurance. Resistive exercise uses resistance (body weight, bands, or weights) to build strength in your muscles.
Set a goal and go for it!
What are you aiming for this winter? Remind yourself of your goals for exercise and staying in shape. By starting with goals in mind, you are more likely to succeed.
Bring fitness indoors if you need to
During the winter months, you may not want to exercise outside, but there are many ways to stay active and warm. You can take a fitness class at the gym, join a community dance class, lift weights, work out to a video at home or do a step challenge at home. Whatever you decide to do, pick one that you are most keen on.
Buddy up!
Exercise with your friends and family to help you get through it and make it more fun. When you have someone pushing you and you are pushing them, the rewards can be even more fruitful.
Plan and do!
Set a date to exercise with a friend or by yourself. Being deliberate about scheduling exercise and taking action on it will ensure that you start to hold yourself accountable. Writing it down or putting it in an electronic calendar with a reminder will ensure it becomes part of your schedule for the day and this can help you achieve your fitness goal. Additionally, track your exercise in a log. Seeing your achievements and progress will be very motivating.
Experts recommend that you exercise for at least thirty minutes, five days a week. However, even five or ten minutes of movement a day can help with weight loss, improving your mood, and increasing your heart health. So, remember your goals for exercising, grab a partner, find an activity you enjoy, take action and get going!
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