Winter can be a great time to re-motivate and get fit fast.
The days are colder and shorter making it harder to set your alarm for an early morning jog, or go to the gym rather than heading straight home after work. What can you do to re-motivate yourself until the warmer temps, longer days and thoughts of bare flesh send you running for your workout gear?
There is a little saying ‘I wear black to work out, because exercise is a funeral for my fat!’ Throw off those dark wintery colours and opt for a new bright colour top. Watermelon reds, cobalt blues and citrus yellows jazz up your wardrobe and might inject some life into your work out too.
What better way to add extra bounce to your step than with a new pair of training shoes. When did you last check to make sure that your soles aren’t tread bare, your cushioning hardened and your support non-existent? Happy feet will mean a more comfortable workout, especially with impact activities like running and aerobics – and the trend in bright coloured shoes will mean they look great with your new top.
Now your wardrobe is popping you need to download some new tunes to give you a boost whilst you bust a fitness move. Pick songs that have a strong beat, are uplifting or have good memories attached to them. It doesn’t have to be the top 10. It could be an inspiring sound track from a movie or a playlist that reminds you of a fabulous overseas holiday or a really happy time in your life.
There will always be a ‘good’ reason to skip that gym session or exercise class – you are tired, you have to finish that project, you are just too busy… It’s not about having time. It’s about making time. A 30 minute workout is only 2% of your day. Push yourself to get there even for a quickie – your body will thank you for it and it will be easier to motivate next time.
Exercise under the guise of doing something else. Walk the coast or your favourite park whilst you catch up on the gossip – over the phone. Rope your friends into a game of singles or doubles tennis. Revisit your youth with an afternoon ice skating. Step out of your comfort zone with something new like indoor rock climbing. Or simply have a bounce at Skyzone, the new trampoline park. You’ll be amazed at how much of a workout these activities can be – and a good laugh.
Stick your favourite motivational quote on the fridge or mirror so you read it every day – preferably first thing in the morning – small changes can make a big difference.
What’s your motivating fitness tip for winter?
By Rachel Livingstone Personal Trainer & Owner of The Health Hub
