Three Ways To Stay Fit When It’s Freezing
I love a good sweat just as much as the next movement coach. However, I won’t lie to you: the last thing I want to do on some cold, winter mornings is crawl out of my warm and cozy bed to work out. It can take a fair amount of encouragement to stay fit during the winter months. Between the holidays, days off with family and friends, and (especially here in the Midwest) the cold temperatures, the choice between stretching on your yoga mat and cozying near the fireplace is often a no brainer: warmth, please!
We’re all human and we deserve every moment of chill we can get. That said, there will be the days when you want to be fit but the cold weather won’t let you be great. Here are three ways to motivate yourself out of your fleece blanket and on the mat:
Keep It Short - An hourlong workout seems overwhelming when the temptation to snuggle up with a cup of cocoa and watch A Diva’s Christmas Carol comes calling (…been there!). Instead, go for a 10-minute flow led by your favorite YouTube yogi. If you want a more active workout, most of us can walk a mile in place or on the treadmill in less than 30 minutes. Remember - there is zero shame in shortening your workout. Ten minutes always beats zero!
Stack (Hab)it Up! - My good friend & client Nakia of Wildflower Lifestyle Coaching recently went live on her Facebook page to talk about one of the best time management tools around: habit stacking. The art of habit stacking is creating new habits by combining - or ‘stacking’ - them with established habits. For example, fellow movement coach Heather of Etain Pilates often opts to walk to her studio, which adds extra steps to her wellness without interrupting her routine. Try habit stacking to save time and increase opportunities for fitness.
Baby, It’s Cold Outside (So Be Safe!) - While you will never catch me working out in winter weather (EVER!), that doesn’t mean it isn’t a viable option - as long as you’re exercising safely. If brisk temps and cold air are the motivation your body needs to jumpstart your fitness, be sure to take the following precautions:
Check the forecast before heading out. Potential snow or ice aren’t the only hazards to avoid; look specifically at the wind chill factor. According to the Mayo Clinic, if it dips below 18 degrees, frostbite can occur within 30 minutes of exposure.
Wear layers of clothing to insure warmth. Prepare to peel off clothes as sweat builds up.
Grab your hat and gloves. Keeping your head, ears, and hands covered in the cold is priority. In fact, a hat and gloves are the bare minimum; consider putting on a scarf and/or ski mask for added protection.
What are your best tips for staying fit when it’s freezing? Leave your comments on these GG Facebook and GG IG posts. Happy (and healthy) Holidays!
