To stay in bed when it’s freezing outside or to not stay in bed when it’s freezing outside; that is the question. Some call it seasonal depression, others call it laziness, and I prefer neither. Staying motivated in winter is hard for most mere mortals, sometimes it’s simply too cold! Who would rather get up, put on shorts and run 5km when you can snuggle up to your dooner for an extra hour?
Having said that, not exercising in winter not only ruins your chances of ‘getting fit for summer’, it will increase your chances of coming down with the common ‘winter blues’. Here’s a look into some things you can do to improve your motivation and keep you going right through those chilly months.
Think positively
Nothing will ruin your determination more than starting the day negatively. Tell yourself that you want to go for a walk/run/gym class, that it is good for you and how much better you’ll feel afterwards. Try not to think things like “Let’s get this over and done with”, instead say to yourself “I’ll feel so good after this run!” Thinking and saying to yourself that you want to exercise, will help you to actually get out of bed and do it, even if all you want to do is hit that comforting snooze button.
Retail Therapy
No, we don’t mean those Jeffry Campbell’s you’ve had your eye on, we mean exercise gear. Having something new to wear often helps us to make an excuse just to wear it. Apply this with any new work out clothing. If you have a new pair of Skins or a cute t-shirt, you’re more inclined to get up and want to show them off, rather than your old tatty tights sitting in the bottom of your wash basket. It’s not necessary to buy something every week, but every now and then it will assist in keeping your mind on exercise and off your pillow.
Join a Group
Chocoholics Anonymous doesn’t count guys! Think a jogging group, or a Pilates class. Being in a group environment often pushes us to turn up if not for ourselves, than to prove to others that you’re attending and not slackening off. It also helps instil a tiny spark of competition, wanting to beat someone can be a healthy tool to help drive our buts out of bed in the morning.
The main thing to keep in mind is that those who work hard will be rewarded. Your exercising efforts are doing your body tremendous benefits, will keep you fit and ward off any nasty winter colds. Remember that it will get easier, sometimes getting up is the hardest part!
