Motivation is the first challenge when attempting to stay fit in the #wintertime, says Colorado Advance Orthopedics, especially if you’re used to staying active outdoors. Make workouts part of your weekly plan and set a goal for the number of days a week you plan to exercise. Set times based on when you’re most likely to exercise based on your rhythms, or target a minimum number of days or hours to create a flexible routine. And make your exercise fun! “Exercise shouldn’t be a chore. You’re much more likely to stick with your routine if you choose activities you enjoy.” #ColdWeatherFitness
Author: Jordank
Editorial Coordinator
Satisfying Your Midwinter Fitness Goals
Recommendations say that adults ages 18 to 65 years should attempt to get at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise five days a week, but that’s difficult during the cold, dark days of #winter. To meet goals even when the weather is treacherous, Brown University Health says, bring your exercise indoors. Join a gym, subscribe to an online fitness class or download a smartphone app that meets your fitness goals and current capabilities. Track your steps. Or stroll through your local office building, mall or big-box store. Any physical activity is healthier than doom-scrolling on the couch! #ColdWeatherFitness
How to Exercise in Winter Weather
It’s difficult to stay motivated for #exercise when the temperatures outside are sub-zero, Today says. Plan ahead to maintain a #healthy lifestyle schedule during #winter by having all the gear you need ready when you wake up — even if it means warm clothing for an outdoor workout. Having an exercise partner can help maintain motivation by helping you show up when you might not feel like it, even attending a virtual class from the privacy of your own home. If you belong to a gym, make a goal to just get there; once you’re there, you’ll be motivated to get at least a little exercise. #ColdWeatherFitness
Organize to Improve Your Midwinter Mood
One of the best ways to fight the #winter blahs is to organize a space. “Being stuck inside for days on end can get wearisome and depressing, especially if #clutter is stressing you out on top of everything else,” Done & Done Home says. You don’t have to do a full overhaul; just concentrate on the areas where you spend the most time, such as the living room or kitchen. Stick to manageable #decluttering and #organizing tasks to give yourself control over the indoor environment and #donate any excess #stuff to ClothingDonations.org. The sense of accomplishment should make you feel better. #MidwinterBlahs
Using Light Therapy to Counter Seasonal Depression
Many people suffer from seasonal affective disorder (SAD) — a moderate to severe form of depression marked by anxiety, fatigue and decreased energy — during the darkest days of #winter. An ounce of prevention may worth a pound of cure, Well+Good says, if you are feeling the full effect of SAD or even a mild case of the winter doldrums. Light therapy can bring some “natural-feeling, mood-boosting” rays into an otherwise dreary space. Mimicking natural sunlight, indoor lamps can be used for just 30 minutes per day to trick the body into a more sunshiny mood. #MidwinterBlahs