Work it – Let it snow! Working out in the winter…

Categories:

Work It

So it’s officially coat weather. Yes, we had a few nice days sprinkled in, but I think it’s safe to say that we’re well on our way to winter. Taking a look at my own workout habits, I already notice a difference in my attitude and overall demeanor in regards to working out. For example, instead of getting up early for the gym this morning I stayed in my warm cozy bed — I mean, it’s still pitch black outside for cryin’ out loud! It’s as if Mother Nature is begging us to keep sleeping! Well now heading into the afternoon I am KICKING myself for not getting my workout over with.

Fact: it’s only going to get more difficult. The excuses list is only going to continue to grow.

So what can we do to keep ourselves motivated? And if we are working out in the cold, how do we know we’re doing it safely?

Behold my winter workout tips!

1.) Bundle up!

Dress in layers, using a moisture wicking material closest to your skin. Going on a snowy hike? Don’t foget the long underwear! After you are resembling a wedding cake (get it? LAYERS!) Top yourself off with waterproof protection, such as a windbreaker, poncho, etc. And don’t forget to cover those fingers and ears!

2.) Warm up!

Get your body used to the cooler temperature by walking in place and stretching.

3.) HYDRATE!

Just because the temperatures are cooler, doesn’t mean you should stop chugging your water.

4.) Stick to the sidewalk and paved roads!

Unless you have special, waterproof shoes that protect your feet from frostbite, don’t risk it. Black and blue toenails just isn’t a sexy look.

5.) Think outside the box!

Look at winter as an opportunity to take up a new activity. In fact. embrace it! Why not give skiing or ice skating a try? Looking to stay indoors? Why not sign up for a ballroom dance class or group fitness? As the days get shorter and then shows its lovely face less often, think about all the indoor classes you’ve been wanting to try.

winter workout

How do you keep moving in the winter? What is your favorite winter-friendly activity?

7 Responses to “Work it – Let it snow! Working out in the winter…”

  1. Stacey Shipman said:

    I used to hibernate during winter! Then I got the right gear and now enjoy walks and jogs on the beach or hikes at local parks. (I live near Boston, so it gets cold!) and snowshoeing – that is a great outdoor winter activity. Winter is definitely no excuse to stop exercising…think creatively, get the right gear and get moving! And if I meet a friend, it makes things so much easier and I’m less likely to stay home where it’s warm!

    Posted on | Reply
  2. Meg @ Be Fit Be Full said:

    I actually get a lot more strength training in during the winter. Because it’s dark out I don’t feel the need to be outside so I stay at the gym a little longer. During the summer I want to spend more time outdoors and less time in the gym :)

    Posted on | Reply
  3. Mara @ What's For Dinner? said:

    I’m such a fan of snowshoeing, but i haven’t caved and bought snow shoes yet… i went in colorado a few years ago and LOVED it!

    also, i prefer to think of layers in the shrek sense: parfaits!

    Posted on | Reply
  4. Vanessa (Last Night's Leftovers) said:

    Ice skating is my favorite part of winter! Especially when the river trail opens up and I can go for miles without having to turn around. Beautiful.

    Posted on | Reply
  5. Shelley said:

    good tips..i love skiing! i’m new to the sport but it’s great in the winter

    xoxo
    shelley

    Posted on | Reply
  6. glidingcalm said:

    awesome tips mama!!!!!!! I love you! happy hump day!

    Posted on | Reply
  7. Jenny said:

    fortunately for me yoga is best down indoors :) great tips love!

    Posted on | Reply

Leave a Comment

Comment Form