5 Ways to Motivate Yourself to Stay Active in the Winter
As another beautiful season of outdoor activities ends, colder and shorter days are now upon us. Luckily, we have a few tips to help you stay motivated and enjoy exercising, even in the winter!
Why Is Staying Motivated in the Winter So Hard?
As the colder temps set in, the sun rises later and sets earlier. This decrease in daylight hours affects our internal clocks and even some of our hormones, as for example melatonin, whose production is regulated by exposure to daylight. Some people, therefore, feel moodier, more tired, and low on energy this time of year. Shorter days also means rethinking how you plan your activities. But this can be a perfect opportunity to incorporate new habits—better adapted to the season—so you can continue to reap the many benefits of physical activity.
What Are the Benefits of Physical Activity on Health and Morale?
Regular physical activity is key to maintaining an active lifestyle. Physical activity releases endorphins in the body and reduces cortisol levels, the stress hormone. As discussed in this study, regular exercise also improves sleep by increasing the duration of deep sleep and decreasing rapid eye movement (REM) sleep, in addition to improving sleep quality and lowering anxiety. In a nutshell, regular exercise is good for the body and mind.
And that is not all! According to the Government of Québec, exercise improves cognitive health and fosters long-term autonomy: another great reason to stay active.
How to Stay Motivated to Exercise in Winter?
The trick is to set realistic goals that suit your personality and most of all your lifestyle.
Sensitive to the Cold? Join a Gym.
If staying warm is important to you, then indoor sports are likely your best option. Joining a gym is the simplest solution to work out without exposing yourself to the elements. To stay motivated, it is important to add variety to your workouts. Think about choosing a gym that offers a wide range of activities, such as group fitness classes, aquatic activities, sports, fitness training, and more. There are different types of memberships memberships; you just need to choose the plan that is right for you.
Enjoy the Group Vibe? Play Team Sports.
If knowing people are waiting for you on the court motivates you to exercise, then the need to be a part of something is likely important to you. Indoor gym sports, such as pickleball, badminton, or basketball, are perfect for fuelling that collective energy. And there is nothing better than sharing a victory (or laughter) with friends.
Need More Structure? Try Private Training.
If you need support and encouragement, then private training is a good option. You can pick a workout plan and personalize it to suit your needs, all with someone by your side to help you achieve your goals.
Want to Calm the Mind? Join a Fitness Class.
Do you work out to disconnect and relax? Group fitness classes such as yoga or Pilates are ideal ways to find inner peace. Taught by certified instructors, they help you cultivate serenity, recharge your batteries, and calm the mind. If you prefer expending lots of energy in a short period of time, then cardio-cycle, toning, or Zumba® classes may be just what you need.
Have a Busy Schedule? Open Practice Activities Are the Way to Go.
If your social commitments are on the rise, you can find other ways to fit physical activity into a busy schedule. Activities such as open swim or lane swim periods at the pool provide greater flexibility with a wider variety of time slots so you can exercise at your own pace. What could be better than exercising on your own, without worrying what is going on around you?
We are here to help you combine pleasure with consistency.