Tips for Exercising in the Cold

When your goal is to stay fit all year and to be active regularly, there can be one big obstacle in the way—winter. The cold and dark can knock us right out of our routines and leave us sitting around waiting for spring. Unless, of course, you have a plan.

Fortunately, the following tips will help you to stay active all winter long. Whether you get out and make the most of the cold or find other ways to work out, you can keep advancing toward your health goals.

Try Winter Sports

For those who already enjoy winter sports, this one is a nice bonus. While people might think winter sports like skiing or snowboarding are fun, you can also get a great workout while doing them. If skiing isn’t your thing, try snowshoeing and really get in some good exercise in the cold. You can rent snowshoes from recreation gear stores, so you don’t have to invest too much up-front.

Get the Right Gear to Exercise in the Winter

Speaking of gear, it is important to make sure you are outfitted properly if you are going to exercise in the cold. If you plan on doing some winter running, for example, it is best to dress in layers that wick moisture to keep you warm and dry without overheating or freezing. Proper shoes for running on potentially slippery surfaces are also key, as are the right gloves, socks, and headgear.

Try More Indoor Activities

Even if you do incorporate more cold-weather activities into your winter workout routine, finding more indoor options can help too. Some days are too inclement for working out, and sometimes the winter pollution makes doing so unhealthy. Check out a boxing class for a great indoor workout that you can enjoy all year round. You can also hit the gym to get in more weight training.

Experiment to Find What Works Best for You

When trying something new, it is a good idea to test out a number of options to see what works for you. Some people love running in winter, other people prefer getting out there for some snowshoeing solitude. A combination of activities can help keep things fresh and interesting, which is great for staying motivated.

Exercise with Friends to Motivate Each Other

Another great motivator is a workout buddy. If you have someone else relying on you for their workout, you are more likely to press forward and follow through. This is also the case for indoor activities like classes. Plus, in addition to going to a class with a friend, you can make more workout friends.

Set a Goal and Stick with It

As with any long-term, self-improvement activity, it helps to set goals so you have something for which to aim. You can aim to get out a certain number of times each week to exercise in the winter, or you can try to achieve a personal best by the time spring rolls around.

Embrace the Experience

If you are someone who dreads winter and feels cooped up all season long, it is time for a winter workout plan. Making the most of the season will help keep you in shape. It will also help you enjoy a time of year that you might not have previously liked.

Check out more health and fitness advice from Legends Boxing, and keep moving this winter!