Winter is Coming: Our Top Workout Tips for the Season
It may not be Game of Thrones level winter, but December means we've officially hit the coldest season as far as we're concerned. We’ve all been there, the alarm goes off and you edge a foot outside the comfort of your warm toasty duvet and its cold. So cold. The last thing you want to do is leave the womb-like embrace of your bed and go outside when it’s still dark. Training in winter has a whole set of quirks and your motivation levels need to stay high or the duvet wins. We’ve put together some tips to keep you moving as the days get colder and the nights get longer.
Train With a Friend:
It’s one thing to let yourself down by not getting to the gym, but its another to let down a friend. Make plans to exercise with someone and you’ll be less inclined to sack the whole escapade off. If they can make it out of bed, or to a class after work, so can you! Plus, that added drop of competition should give you the boost to work your hardest.
Don’t Hibernate:
It’s tempting to set up shop in front of Netflix on December 1st and remain there until March, but if you keep yourself moving, you’ll find it a lot easier to keep momentum. If you really can’t bear to part with your living room, bring the exercise into it. Find a workout that you can complete in the space and squat, crunch and lunge along to Corrie.
Eat Clean and Resist the Urge to Binge:
Research has suggested that your body stores more fat in the winter (how very bear-like). Craving carbs is normal for this time of year, warm potatoes and pies seem like a staple for winter but they don’t need to be. Find alternatives to your favourite dishes and cook those instead. Sweet potatoes will be your new best friend! Keep your protein intake high to avoid hunger pains making you reach for naughty treats. Why not try smarter alternatives that still taste great, like our cookie dough protein balls.
Dress to Impress:
If you’re venturing outside for your workout, dress accordingly. You body temperature will rise during exercise (obvs) so make sure you feel slightly cool when starting as you’ll soon warm up, but don’t go out looking like its summer in Ibiza. If need be, layer up and you can adjust during your workout. Make sure you come inside to do your cool down and stretch as your body temperature will drop quickly.
Do you have any top tips for winter training? Is there something that helps you get out of bed in the morning? Let us know in the comments and lets beat the cold together!