There is a cold wind blowing outside, and the temperatures have dropped below freezing. The sidewalks and roads are covered by slush or ice, and the sky is a gloomy shade of grey. It’s hard enough to motivate yourself to get outside and exercise when the weather is sunny and warm, so how are you supposed to maintain your goal of healthy living when Winter makes outdoor activities so unappealing?
According to studies, working out during the winter months will help keep you focused on your health while chasing the winter blues away.
Exercising during winter is equally important as exercising during summer, even though we’re quite aware that it’s a lot harder. During winter we tend to move less and therefore it’s not a surprise that we gain some unwanted fat – not to mention all those Christmas cookies. But it doesn’t have to be like that.
Here are some simple fitness strategies to get you through the winter months:
1. Go Running
You might think it sounds crazy, but believe it or not, there are plenty of enthusiasts who just love running during the winter. All you need is a good pair of winter shoes and warm clothes, and you’re ready to burn some calories. You might also want to find a jogging companion, just to make things more fun.
2. Go Ice-Skating
You’d be amazed how much calories you can burn during one session of ice-skating with your significant other or friends. It’s not very demanding, and it’s fun. You see, keeping fit during winter can also be a pleasant challenge.
3. Go To A Gym
Though going to the gym might prove extra difficult in those cold, January days, it’s still worth the effort. Pack your bag with a pair of sport sneakers, an old t-shirt and you’re ready to get your blood pumping. If you’re not a lifting-weights enthusiast, join a class, as gyms tend to offer a ton of fun exercise sessions. No excuses; just do it.
4. Exercise At Home
Why not, there are plenty of exercises you can do at home; from sit-ups and squats, to push-ups and planks. All you need is motivation, and since you don’t want to go out, at least maximize your efficiency at home. Keep in mind that 30 minutes per day is more than enough.
5. Hockey
Hockey might be the winter equivalent of football. What’s more, hockey players are some of the toughest athletes out there, so that might be your motivation to take your kids or your friends and go straight to the nearest hockey hall. If you have some experience with ice-skating, it shouldn’t be hard to improve your skills enough for a decent game. Or even if you don’t, trust as when we say, it’s a blast!
6. Nutrition
Since your activities are reduced during the winter chill, it’s more important to watch your nutrition. We’re not saying to become obsessed with BMI and calories, but just pay more attention to vegetables and fruit, and less to fast food and sweets. Not a big deal.
7. Play
Go out and play, just like when you were little. Take your dog or children to your favorite park or playground. Build a snowman, or find those old sledges. Start a snowball fight with your kids and their friends, or just dance in your living-room. You’re not trying to become a bodybuilding champion, but in order to burn a few more calories, a couple of hours of outdoor activities will certainly do the trick.
Article Source: http://www.fitnessviking.com/