How to Push the Limits of Your Winter Workout

When the winter months hit, motivation to go to the local gym can be hard to come by. Everything about the holidays, the food, and the weather tells you to stay indoors, huddle up, and binge your favorite shows until the sun comes out again. But with a few simple fitness tips, you can stay on track to meet your fitness goals for 2018 – and push your limits even before your New Year’s resolutions kick in.

‍Curb your carb cravings. You’re not imagining it: fewer hours of sunlight actually does make you crave carbs. That’s because eating carbs raise your serotonin levels, which are lower when there’s less sunlight. So when you do indulge in carbs, be mindful of what kind and what time of day you indulge. Before the sun sets in the afternoon, treat yourself to low-fat, healthy carbs like sweet potatoes, cinnamon toast or oatmeal with a little bit of brown sugar.

‍Get some new workout gear. Cold weather encourages layering, which means it’s a little bit easier to get away with eating more and working out less. Rather than leaning into this, keep yourself motivated by getting some cool new workout clothes that will keep you honest and make you want to strut your stuff at the gym. Are you taking spin class? HIIT? Pilates? Get some fitness accessories that will help you stay on track and you’ll be that much more inclined to make good on your purchases.

‍Try something new. The nice thing about being a member at Fitness Connection is you get access to every class at your local gym, so take advantage. Check the fitness class schedule for your gym and pick something new to try. If you’re feeling brave, try something new every week. Staying brave and excited about your workout means you’ll be a lot more engaged in what you do and what results you get for it.

‍Don’t settle. This may seem elementary, but when it’s dark and cold, make yourself a promise: you won’t sit down on your couch at the end of the day until your workout is done. Commit to 30 minutes of cardio, strength training, or whatever gets your heart pumping best before you let yourself rest for the day, no matter when you do it. Reinforce the habit enough and soon it will become second nature.

Have any questions about staying motivated and pushing your limits this holiday season? We have answers. Come in and talk to any of our friendly fitness experts at your local Fitness Connection. We’ll be happy to help you bust those winter blues and stay on track for 2019.