Seeking extra motivation?

As the chilly days seem to be well and truly here, some of us start to lack the drive and enthusiasm that we may have had during the warmer months. While weather should never be an excuse not to exercise, I understand that the initial getting-out-the-door thing can be a little tougher than usual.

My own workouts will NOT stop over winter, not ever, but I certainly haven’t been springing out of bed to get in the gym!

Here’s a few little tips to help keep you moving:

Think of the bigger picture – why did you start exercising in the first place, what were your long-term or short-term goals? Have your goals changed just because the temperature has dropped? And if you currently don’t have goals, it might be a good time to set one for yourself to help keep you moving.

Get yourself a training partner, someone who is relying on you to show up, makes you more accountable. And best pick someone who has as much (or more) motivation than you do – rather than someone who is likely to cancel on you cos it’s too cold.

Remind yourself how fantastic you feel after a great workout, and of course how crappy you’ll feel if you skip it.
Some people do eat a little more when it’s cold – remember you’re not extra ‘hungry’, it’s just a comfort thing (like most over-eating). As always, find other ways to entertain yourself.

And lastly, keep reminding yourself that summer WILL come again, and if you’ve let the cold stop you taking care of yourself over winter, you’ll have a HUGE amount of work to do to feel ready to strip off when the sun comes back!!

If all else fails and the above tips don’t help, remember that some days are tougher than others, regardless of the weather. That’s just life. Some days you just have to make yourself train because it’s for the greater good! Health and fitness needs to be a way of life, rather than just when the conditions suit you. Rise above the cold, and of course remember, exercising is a brilliant way to get warm!

Have a great day!

Paula