Stay on track this winter
It’s getting colder which doesn’t help the motivation levels for training over winter, right? But if you’re tempted to hit the snooze button in the morning or lock your doors and curl up on the couch after work, remember this – staying motivated this winter requires a change to only one thing: YOUR MINDSET.
Unfortunately, when winter rolls around, all we desire is to curl up on the couch in big sweaters and slippers. It’s not cute but it’s comfortable.
But, that big sweater gives us a false sense of security. We can’t see how much damage we could potentially be doing by eating and maintaining a sedentary lifestyle.
You’ve worked all year to get in shape so learn to ignore the gloom and doom and stay on track to better health.
Here are a few tips to help you stay motivated during the winter months.
Change your mind.
Winter isn’t just about cold weather, it’s a whole new season! Embrace the time of year by sitting down and revisiting your goals, then plan out what you’d like to accomplish during the next few months. Remember your yearly goal that’s on the board have you reached it? We’re all so busy these days that time seems to fly, which is why it’s important to reflect on our past accomplishments and current goals. It can help you see winter in a new, inspired light.
Focus on the benefits of training
The gravitational pull of the bed or couch is very strong in the mornings or after a long day at work especially when it is cold and dark outside. That’s why you need to remind yourself of the benefits exercise brings you. You want to manage your stress levels, have an abundance of energy and feel good about yourself rather than falling asleep at your desk, feeling overwhelmed and overweight. So get a piece of paper and write down all the ways exercise adds to the quality of your life. Stick it on the fridge and read it regularly, particularly when you are feeling flat.
Get a trainer
Personal trainers are the masters of motivation and winter can be a great time to invest in one if you need that extra motivation in the winter months
Set a regular time to work out and stick to it.
A routine can help.
Try something new.
There’s nothing like signing up for a new class. You might even make some new friends or learn some new skills.
Set a big goal—and some little goals.
If winter weather leaves your motivation to exercise colder than an icicle, heat things up with a challenging, new goal. It can be anything from losing those last 10 pounds, to running a 5K (yes, you can still run outside in the cold) or even doing a full pull-up or improving your 1 rep max on a certain lift but choose a goal that you really want and that will stretch you beyond your comfort zone to reach it. Setting a smart goal that you then break down into smaller, achievable action steps is a great way to start. Instead of focusing on simply working out this winter, this type of goal-setting allows you to keep focused, stay on track with your training and the most important thing – your dreams.
Get excited.
If you’ve never been a winter fan, start focusing on what you do love about it and how this time of year provides new opportunities for your fitness and health. From eating delicious in-season produce (oranges, kale, and chestnuts, oh my!), to curling up with a big mug of sugar-free hot cocoa (Hibernate which we also sell in the shop) in front of the fireplace after a long workout, there is much to love about winter when you embrace and appreciate it.
Listen—you’ve worked mighty hard all year. Why throw it all away during the season of frivolity and food? It won’t be easy to stay motivated, but friends can help. Stick to the routine as much as possible and you won’t feel the after effects of a long indulgent holiday season – you’ll be one step ahead when January rolls round too.
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