How to Stay Motivated When it is Cold Outside

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Winter Workout Tips

By Jason Lewis December 12, 2018 3 mins
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When it’s freezing outside and all you can think about is cuddling up at home under a blanket with a hot mug of tea, the idea of fitting in a workout that day suddenly takes a backseat. It’s no wonder. Most of our motivation for fitness lies in the visual. You see that extra weight in your stomach, hips, or thighs and suddenly getting to the yoga studio is of paramount importance. But in the winter, all of that visual motivation is covered in layers.

However, while working out may be the last thing on your mind in the winter, the season is actually the best time to get in shape. Once December has come and gone, you have more free time and less engagements that fill up your schedule. Plus, starting a fitness routine in the winter means you have months of progress under your belt by the time you shed the layers for summer.

And those are just the cosmetic reasons you should work out in winter. This season is often associated with S.A.D. -- seasonal affective disorder. About 10 million Americans get the winter blues each year. Symptoms include oversleeping, weight gain, listlessness, irritability, fatigue, hopelessness, and--of course-- sadness. Exercise is an extremely effective way to combat seasonal depression. It increases your exposure to sunlight, boosts feel-good neurochemicals, and helps you combat the many symptoms of S.A.D.

With all this evidence, there is no excuse to forgo fitness just because it’s cold out. However, if you still have trouble finding the motivation to work out this season, try these helpful tips.
Cold Weather Workout Tips

• Move it indoors. While many of us love exercising in the fresh air, an indoor workout is better than no workout. Try a new indoor fitness activity such as swimming, or a different yoga class that challenges your body in new ways. These activities relieve stress and anxiety, and can even be helpful for someone recovering from addiction. If you’re not sure where to begin, there are several informative fitness channels on YouTube that feature instructional videos to get your blood pumping.
• Join a community. When others are rooting for your success, you are more likely to reach your goals. While online communities are abundant and accessible, there’s nothing like having your own cheer squad IRL. When you join a yoga studio, you get the added benefits of people with shared interests supporting each other’s health and well being.
• Dress for success. If you need a little motivation to work out this winter, consider buying some new gear. When you have a new yoga mat, leggings, or running shoes, you can’t wait to break them out and use them.
• Treat yourself. If you are the type of person who responds to incentives, work that into your fitness goals. There are apps and websites that actually pay people to exercise, but money isn’t the only incentive out there. Consider taking a trip, going to an expensive restaurant, or buying yourself something really nice… but only if you make it to the studio four or five times a week.

​While winter weather may make you want to cuddle up in bed and never leave, you shouldn’t ignore your fitness goals this time of year. Exercising now will ensure your body is ready by the time the layers come off. Plus, it can help battle seasonal depression. To encourage yourself to work out this winter, consider moving your workout indoors. Joining a community provides your very own pep squad cheering for your success. Spending money on new workout gear or classes makes you want to exercise so that money doesn’t go to waste. Finally, if all else fails, plan a killer incentive for yourself that you can only claim once you meet your goals.

New Gear to Keep You Warm this Winter:

• Kari Traa Women's Tikse Long Sleeve Shirt

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• Kari Traa Women's Rett Pant 

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• Kari Traa Svala Midlayer Hood Jacket - Mauve

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• Louis Garneau Method Neck Gaiter, Black/Multicolor, One Size

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• Craft Sportswear Men's Repel Running and Training Outdoor Sport Windproof and Waterproof Reflective Fitted Hooded Jacket

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• CEP Men's Progressive+ Outdoor Light Merino Socks, Size 4, Deep Magma

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• Hoka One One Speedgoat 2 Plum / Peacoat Trail Runner 

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• Seirus Solarsphere Ace Glove Black 1700 with Solar Heated Insulation

Buy on Amazon

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Jason Lewis

Personal trainer since 2002, I became the primary caretaker for my mother after her surgery. I realized, as I helped her recover, there was a special need for trainers that can assist the seniors in our community. I worked with my mother’s doctor, as well as other personal trainers, to create programs that are considerate to the special health needs of those over the age of 65.