Winter Workout Blues

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Have you got the winter workout blues? Feeling the effects of cabin fever? During these winter months we tend to lose some motivation to get up and get moving. Although there are lots of winter activities like cross country skiing and snowshoeing, these activities are not for everyone and are dependent upon the weather.

One key to staying motivated to exercise, regardless of the time of year, is to recognize when you are getting bored with the same routine. This is especially true during the winter months as are our moods are a little less jolly and it's easier to talk ourselves out of our workouts. Below are some tips to break the blues and get moving - warming you up from head to toe.

Warm Up

  • If you feel the need to stay snuggled in bed and are skipping your morning routine try placing your workout clothes in the dryer for a few minutes. Then climb into those nice warm clothes and get revved up to do your workout.
  • If outdoors is where you are headed for your workout try warming up indoors first. Walk around the room at a brisk pace, skip or lightly jump rope. This will warm up your body before braving the cold weather outside. Be sure not to get sweaty during your warm up as this will make you colder once outside.
  • If your daily exercise is planned for the inside, still take the time to warm up your body. Some other ideas are climbing up and down the stairs or marching/jogging in place.
  • Warm up with a hot shower to jump start your motivation. The more alert you are the more motivated you will be to get in a workout.

Get Outdoors

If you are missing the great outdoors don't let the snowy scene give you the winter blues. Go ahead and get out there to enjoy the winter wonderland. Try some of the following:
  • Do some indoor aerobics then head outside for a few laps around the block.
  • Dress in layers to stay insulated and have the ability to adjust as your body temperature rises.
  • Have a headlamp and reflective gear to use during the dark hours.
  • Shovel the snow.
  • Try a winter activity with friends or family. Snowshoeing, ice skating, or another fun winter activity.

Switch it Up

  • If you generally workout in the morning, try a few days with an evening exercise routine.
  • Try circuit training; combining aerobic exercise with strength training.
  • Switch from using resistance bands to weight or head to the gym to try new equipment.
  • Try a new exercise DVD or download an exercise workout.
  • Try something totally NEW!
  • Treat yourself to new workout music or clothes.
Regardless of what you choose to do to move you body just keep MOVING! Please share in the comments on how you stay busy during the dark, winter months!

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