Winter Workout 101
The importance of exercise in sustaining one's health is a universal reality. However, it's also true that some people dislike working out in the cold. To keep your heart healthy and maintain mental wellness, you should attempt to move your body every day. Winter might feel like the longest season ever at times! Its low temperatures and early nightfall frequently result in a lack of vitality, or what I refer to as the winter blues. Here are my top five strategies to overcome the winter blues with fitness to inspire our Urban Body Fix Fam. But, before we go any further, I want to point out some of the health benefits of working out, such as the fact that exercise is a wonderful stress reliever and it improves mood, cardiovascular health and stamina. It also aids in weight maintenance, so if you're seeking to lose weight, working out is definitely the greatest option. Last but not least, it assists in the development of a strong immune system. So, let's get started with our winter fitness tips.
Brighten up your day by wearing bright colors
Winter is the darkest season of the year, with rain, sleet, snow, and ice obstructing visibility. If you're exercising outside, wear bright or luminous clothing, especially if you're running or bicycling near busy roadways. It can help you stay safe since your clothes are bright and it also cheers up your mood.
Set goals
It's difficult to keep motivated if you don't have any goals to eventually reach. You can stay focused by setting a goal (or numerous modest ones). You may set a huge goal, such as running a half-marathon, and then set smaller targets to work towards in the months leading up to that main goal. When it comes to fitness objectives, try to look outside the box and don't just focus on losing weight. Set exciting and motivating goals for yourself and share them with a friend or family member for added accountability. Try to follow the SMART formula, which stands for specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound.
Find a workout buddy/Make a workout playlist
This is the most enjoyable tip because my workout partner is often my sister or parents, and in some cases, my best workout partner is my dog. However, your workout partner can occasionally be music, a fitness watch, or even a real workout buddy, such as friends or neighbors. This is motivating for both you and the individual who joins you! I completely understand if you don't have a workout friend; however, don't experience FOMO because music is the best part of my workout and keeps me going. The best thing to do is to put on a workout playlist and you're good to go.
Explore indoor/outdoor workouts
Developing and sticking to a winter workout may necessitate a departure from your usual fitness regimen and preferences, particularly if you're used to working out outside. Try a different cardio workout, such as swimming, kickboxing, or cycling. Alternatively, mix it up by incorporating different types of exercise, such as CrossFit, yoga, Zumba, or weight training. However, maintain a healthy balance and don't let the cold discourage you from going outside. Bundle up and go for a vigorous 30-minute walk when the sun shines. Take an ice skating class or try snowboarding if you're feeling daring. Always remember to use natural sunscreen, even if it's cold.
Follow us on @UrbanBodyFix and share your winter workout stories.