Staying motivated to be active and healthy in the winter can be hard! The cold weather makes it difficult to get out of a comfortable blanket and work out. Exercise can help you get rid of those winter blues, boost energy, and prevent unwanted weight gain. Here are some great tips to get you up and moving!
Set a New Goal
Setting a new goal is a great way to get that motivation back. Start brainstorming something you’ve always wanted to do but have never gotten to before. Ideas for new goals include:
- Joining a new gym
- Trying a new type of exercise, such as yoga or weightlifting
- Finding a workout buddy
- Working out during your lunch break
- Completing an exercise challenge
Focus on Mental Health Benefits
When you don’t feel the warmth and sun of summer, you might feel a little down. Exercising has great mental health benefits such as feeling less stressed and more relaxed. With all the hustle and bustle of the holiday season, exercising can be helpful in finding a happy place. Although you may not see immediate results physically, you may see immediate benefits to your mental health.
Always Check the Weather
If you’re working out outside, it’s important to be prepared for the weather. You may have to dress in many layers to make sure you are staying warm. It’s easy to remove articles of clothing, so always dress for warmth. Wearing a hat is a great way to retain heat in your body. You might also want to consider bringing mittens, gloves, or hand warmers.
Drink Lots of Water
It might seem like you don’t need to drink as much water when you’re working out in the winter, but you can become dehydrated in cold weather too. Anytime you are being active, make sure you are staying hydrated. Skip the sugary sports drinks and grab a water!