Truth be told: It’s not easy to drag yourself outside in the freezing cold when it’s snowing to squeeze in a workout. Here in Brantford, we have a pretty good idea how long and colourless our winters can get. Now, with it being January, the desperation for movement is understandable but our motivation is at an all time low.
Exercise is not just about keeping fit in the winter months, it’s one of our key strategies for maintaining good mental health as well, and helping to combat any sluggish feelings that erupt and keeping our energy levels stable.
If you’re struggling to stay active as the frost sets in, here are four strategies to keep your movement consistent until the nicer weather moves in.
- Bring the Trainer to You
The biggest obstacle to winter fitness, more often than not, is the commute. Add to that de-icing the car and navigating slushy Brantford roads – it’s motivation enough for anyone to cancel on their gym.
That’s why in-home personal training is a life-saver. With a trainer coming to your door, you take away the “commute hurdle”. When the gym comes to your living room or any designed workout area, there is no more excuse for the cold weather to hold you back.
- Focus on “Micro-Movements”
If getting through an entire one-hour at-home workout on a dark Tuesday feels daunting, try some micro movements instead. Spend only 15 minutes on mobility work, a short circuit or a brisk walk before the sun sets. In winter, the hardest thing about fitness is often just getting started. After you start moving for 10 minutes, you are more than likely going to kick in the energy it will take to continue on.
- Embrace the “Winter Glow”
You don’t have to spend the whole winter cooped up indoors. On those clear, sunny days, hit the Grand River trails or Mohawk Park and go for a hike. Fresh air and Vitamin D (even in small amounts) can do wonders for your spirit. Oh, and don’t forget to layer on clothes! Moisture-wicking base layers will be your best friend when it comes to avoiding that post-workout chill.
- Adjust Your Goals
Winter is a good time to stop focusing on “peak performance” and start thinking more about “structural integrity:”. Take the opportunity, in these months, to do all those things that we usually neglect over the summer – work on our core strength, increase flexibility, perform corrective exercises. By doing so, you’ll be faster, stronger and less injury-prone when running and cycling season arrives once more.
- Don’t Wait for Spring
Consistency is a muscle – if you don’t use it in the winter, it deteriorates. Whether it’s a custom in-home plan or a focused nutrition approach to fight the “winter munchies”, we’re here for your success!
Ready to punch that winter slump right in the face? Contact us to book for a FREE consultation today and help keep you moving all season long!
Our passionate team of fitness professionals are committed to helping you fit your health and fitness goals into your busy life, and achieving the results you deserve.
