Stuck in a Winter Workout Rut?

Avoid a winter workout rut & keep your fitness regime alive during the cold months.

Summer has been and gone and all that effort you’ve put into eating right, exercising regularly and sleeping well is slowly becoming a distant memory. You’re not alone though! We’ve really struggled to keep up the motivation as the evenings have drawn in & it has become colder outside. So we thought we’d share some of our tips for staying in control of your health & fitness over wintertime.

1. Preparation is key

As President Benjamin Franklin once said, ‘By failing to prepare, you are preparing to fail.’ This notion is so important when it comes to health & fitness. Why not make a meal plan for the week ahead and then write your shopping list accordingly. Not only will you then feel more prepared and in control but you’ll save yourself some money through only buying what’s on your list! When it comes to fitness, why not book yourself into a class or arrange a fitness date with a friend a week ahead? This way you know what you are doing and as you’ve committed you’ll be less likely to quit.

2. Find a wingman or woman

By working out with someone, whether that be a friend, a personal trainer or in a group, you are increasing your accountability with a commitment. It’s also more fun working out with others as the time seems to pass more quickly and if you like, you can create a competitive edge to push yourself that bit harder than you would have done if you were alone. I would be having a lie in every Saturday morning if it weren’t for Harriet texting me at 8am checking whether I’m still on for Park Run...

3. Embrace the cold weatherLXLMS​

Invest in some winter workout gear – not only will you feel more equipped to face the cold but you’ll want to make your purchases worthwhile! Don’t talk yourself out of it and just go!

4. Try something new

There’s never a better time to try something that you’ve been contemplating trying all year. We’re so lucky to have so much choice here in Gloucestershire – whether it be CrossFit (why not try a free taster session?), a trampoline class, hot yoga (there's a great offer for newbies at the moment), a kettlecise class or joining the 400 some people at Park Run every Saturday morning at 9am, there’ll be something out there for everyone.

5. Set a goal for the end of the year

You’re more likely to remain focused if you’ve got a goal you’re working towards. Make sure you make your goal SMART (specific, measureable, achievable, realistic, with a timeframe) though. We often set ourselves goals. At the moment Harriet is trying to run 5km under 24 minutes and training for her next half marathon, whilst I’m aiming for 5km under 23 minutes.

6. Don’t let the festive season defeat you

It’s an indulgent time of year with numerous parties and dinners out and we all have days where we fall off the wagon, what’s most important is that we get back on it though. It's ok for a little treat now & then, just don’t make it a daily habit!

#Winter #Running #ParkRun #CrossFit #Exercise