When the temperature drops below freezing and the days are still short, it is TOUGH to stay motivated to move. You know that exercise is good for you and all those benefits rattle around in your brain, but darn it, the other part of you wants to stay warm and possibly "check out" for the day.
Some successful people swear by the 5:00 am alarm and making yourself get started for the day; promising that this life changing behavior is a MUST. Others will say that just going to the gym at any time of the day decreases their stress and boosts their mental well-being. But with your demanding schedule, it's easy to let those excuses get in the way: too much to-do, not enough time, and dang it's too cold.
Imagine feeling energized; strong in body and spirit all winter long! Exercise isn’t just about fitness—it’s a powerful tool for managing anxiety, improving mood, and keeping your heart strong, even in colder months. In fact, winter exercise helps combat season affective disorder (SAD), keeps the winter weight down, and boosts your immune system!
You know the benefits and you know you "should" get up and move... so why don't you? What excuse are you allowing to get in your way? Below are a series of questions to help you with this:
What's my biggest barrier, aside from the cold, that's getting in my way? The most common reasons are: "no-time", "too tired", or "I'll do it later..."
If you say time: how are you spending your time outside of work? What are you willing to let go of? Can you do some activities while also exercising?
If you say, "too tired": Going for a 10-minute walk outside will wake you up. In fact, exercise will help combat chronic fatigue. Try going for a walk during your lunch break to prevent the evening crash from getting in your way.
"I'll do it later..."- How many years have you been saying that?
Here's the thing:
If you really want to feel better, you are going to have to make some changes.
Your overall health is a direct correlation to the choices you are making daily. Let's start making some healthier choices to improve stress management, mental well-being, and your energy! Let's start by setting yourself up for success!
Tips to Get Out and Move:
STOP DOING IT ALONE!
Get your group to sign up for a cold race or fun activity. Relays are a lot of fun!
Cold Plunges
Hot Chocolate Runs
Freezing 5K
Sign up for a group class at the gym
If the temps are too cold, sign up for a gym membership WITH A FRIEND, and commit to going to a class together.
Meet up with established run/walking groups.
Don't like running or the gym? Then sign up for something YOU DO LIKE.
Yoga
Pilates
Qi Gong
Barre Class
Swimming
Give me all your excuses and I'll provide you with 5 solutions! Bottom line:
If you always do what you've always done, then you'll always get what you always got. - Henry Ford
Don't let the dark, cold, and wintery days keep you from your most valuable asset.... Your HEALTH.
In summary,
Cold weather doesn’t have to derail your fitness. Find enjoyable ways to move WITH SOMEONE—whether it’s indoor workouts, dressing warmly for outdoor walks, or even incorporating movement into your workday. Regular exercise is a natural stress reliever and keeps your heart strong year-round.
Energetically,
Dr. Lexi
Kommentare