It's hard finding the motivation to exercise during the winter months. Many people are too busy scraping ice from their windshields and staying warm than exercising. You may feel limited in the types of exercise that you can do - especially if you don't belong to a gym. Here are some ideas that may get you motivated to work out in the winter.
Get into winter sports
Skiing, snowboarding, and ice skating are not only fun but can provide a great cardio workout. I am not a great ice skater but I have so much fun anyway. Getting the entire family involved is even better.
Get into strength training
If being outdoors in the winter is simply not your thing, this may be just the right time to learn more about strength training. Building muscle is so key in overall good health and fitness. You can start strength training right in your own home with simple items like dumbbells, a small exercise bench or stability ball, and a barbell if you have room.
Body weight exercises
There are tons of body weight exercises that you can do at home. Check out the body weight circuit training video I found for some great examples. I perform body weight exercises on the days I don't go to the gym. I find them challenging and fun.
For those of you that don't let the cold weather stop you from working out outdoors, there are still some things to keep in mind.
Winter cramps - Cold weather restricts blood flow to the muscles so it's important to warm-up to aid circulation. I do a couple sets of body weight squats and push-ups for a good warm-up.
Dehydration - Cold weather can also make us feel less thirsty. Drink plenty of water before working out to keep yourself from dehydrating.
Thermal Wear - Layering your clothing in the winter is important, however, the right thermal wear can make exercising in the winter more tolerable. Under Armour is very popular for cold weather. It is designed to keep you warm and dry by wicking sweat away from your body.
Don't let the winter stop you from staying in shape!
{ 4 comments… read them below or add one }
Just watch Rocky IV. There is a great Russian winter workout in that movie. Running in the snow and climibing mountains. Great workout.
ROFL, I second the rocky exercise.
I am definitely using this winter as a time to get my lifting stats up, esp my deadlift.
Last winter I did a lot of off-road running and racing, which is also fun. It’s quite satisfying to be one of the few mad people out running when everyone else is in their homes.
Off-Road racing.. I bet that’s a workout in itself if you do it
for a long time! I mostly do crunches and wear my Pro Power Suit, especially during the winter.. lazy! lol