Published:
January 9, 2023
Staying fit and healthy can become more challenging during the colder months, especially if you prefer exercising outdoors. But with the right combination of positivity and practicality, regular exercise and winter can be winning partners! Below are 6 tips to keep you motivated and moving through any season.
Bundle Up and Continue Outdoors
Ok, let’s be real. There will be days where you won’t be going out due to the wind chill, ice, etc. In reality, however, not all winter days are unbearable. Dress in layers, grab a hat, gloves, sunglasses—maybe a scarf—and be sure to keep yourself visible. Stay committed to what you enjoy doing as best as you can.
Stay Positive and Practical
It starts with a mindset. Keep in mind that something is always better than nothing. Even if you may not be accumulating the same amount of exercise time per week as in the fall, staying engaged with any amount of exercise is always productive and worthwhile.
Keep Things Simple at Home
Overthinking exercise tends to be common not only in the winter months, but all year round. Think of basic exercises such as jumping jacks, squats, and push-ups. Exercises such as these can be done at home without any equipment. Remember, any exercise can be modified to meet your fitness level.
Find Something New
This could be a great time of year to try something different and fresh with exercise in an indoor setting. Perhaps it’s checking out a local fitness center for the first time, trying a new group exercise class, or starting to swim laps at an indoor pool. There’s plenty of variety to choose from, and there is no right or wrong exercise.
Nutrition and Hydration
Good nutrition and proper hydration are important components of exercise year round. So pay attention to your plate and keep the water bottle handy!
You can’t run away from a bad diet. Exercise and diet work together to help keep you healthy. Focus on the five main food groups—fruits, vegetables, protein, grains, and dairy. Each contributes vital nutrients to your diet and enhance athletic performance.
Even though you may associate hydration with the sweltering days of summer, it’s just as important to avoid dehydration in winter. Your body needs water to function properly in every season. Don’t count on thirst or perspiration as cues. Remember to drink plenty of water and other non-caffeinated, low-sugar, non-alcoholic beverages—especially before, during and after physical activity. Fruits and vegetables also help you stay hydrated.
Remember Why Exercise is Important
Exercise can sometimes become just a checkbox on our weekly to do lists; especially during the winter when we may feel less likely to do it. But remember, exercise is a choice. Set realistic expectations and keep the benefits top of mind. Exercise can:
- Improve or maintain overall physical and mental health
- Enhance your mood
- Increase your energy level
- Improve your sleep
- Help you maintain your weight
Exercise is what you make it, no matter the season or what type of exercise you choose. And there's no better time to start (or re-start) than now!