Sure, exercising is good for your body at any time of the year, no matter what season it is. And many think that getting the rush of endorphins is enough affirmation that you are getting the benefits of exercise. But with the dropping temperature and shorter periods of daylight, how do you turn that thinking into action for your winter workouts?
Keep Your Workout’s Fire Burning this Winter
Winter is the season when most people tend to lose all their fitness motivation. It’s easier to get cozy curled up in bed with a book or a cup of coffee than go for a quick run outside. Finding motivation can be extra difficult because of the weather. But it shouldn’t stop you from keeping your body fit and healthy. Here are HiDow International’s five ways to help you exercise when it’s cold and dark outside.
1. Start Indoors
Because of the cold weather, it is understandable if you find it hard to step outside in the first place. Even walking can be quite a tedious task. What more if you’re doing an actual exercise? Good thing you can take a 10-minute low-level aerobic exercise indoors before you head out. Try jogging in place or doing jumping jacks until you’re warm and motivated enough to start your winter grind.
2. Think of the Consequences
Along with the changing weather, there will also be changes to your body and health conditions. The colder the temperature gets, the more constricted your blood vessels get. Meaning your blood is thickening, and you’re at a higher risk of a heart attack or stroke because your body temperature is changing quickly. That said, remember that exercise is more important in the winter than summer.
3. Perceive the Future
Think about the summer and all the fun activities on the beach. You won’t get that beach body overnight. So keep your goals in mind and start moving now while you have enough time to prepare for fun summer outdoor activities. Motivate yourself by picturing the benefits you will reap when you exercise now.
4. Gear Up
Depending on which part of the globe you live in, the winter season can range from moderate to worst– sometimes just cold, sometimes wet, and sometimes both. So don’t hit the streets with neon shorts and tank tops. Dress appropriately and keep yourself warmed up and comfortable. Exercising in the winter is not different from any other season. You just dress up a bit more.
5. Mix it Up With Alternatives
You can use the treadmill if you’re a runner or sign up for a gym membership to get through the winter months. But you don’t have to keep yourself locked up indoors all the time. You can try to learn new activities and work out different muscle groups. Think cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, hiking, and mountain biking on packed snow. Be creative and let yourself out. Anything that challenges your body to move is good for your overall health.
6. Work Hard But Recover Smartly
Our muscles tend to get tight when our muscles are not often used. This is possible, especially when winter often immobilizes us due to the cold.
The Bottom Line
Don’t let the harsh weather conditions affect your goals and desires to stay fit. With proper thinking being converted into actions, you will surely be able to reach your goals.
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