As the skies darken and the temperature plummets, making a choice between the get-up-and-exercise option and the desire to cuddle up on the couch with a hot cuppa soup and a good book becomes really difficult. This is one reason the pounds pile on faster than the jerseys in the winter months.
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Fortunately all is not lost. We have consulted the experts and put together a few exercise ideas and tips to keep you in top shape for when summer rolls around again.
"The elements may not be on your side this time of year if you are an outdoor person, but there are plenty of indoor exercises to keep you fit and healthy during this period,” says Fran Venter, National Fitness Manager of Virgin Active SA.
Top 5 winter sports
The gym: This is always a good option as there are numerous activities ranging from weights to aerobic classes to keep you busy. Most gyms also have an indoor heated swimming pool to take the edge off the winter chill.
Yoga or Pilates: Both these forms of exercise are slow and controlled, building strength and focusing on core muscles and stability. The deep breathing associated with all forms of these exercises will also help warm you up from the inside out.
Hiking: Depending on the weather, a hike is perfect for getting the blood pumping and filling those lungs with fresh air. Make sure you dress warmly and take enough fluid with you to make this a thoroughly enjoyable experience.
Rugby: The Vodacom Super 14 might be almost over, but there's no reason why you can't hit the field with a group of friends and score a few tries. If you're just starting out, why not start with touch-rugby to get you headed in the right direction. Many touch-rugby clubs are mixed, so men and women can play together.
Dancing: From ballroom to pole dancing, belly-dancing to line dancing, winter is the prefect time to grab your partner and put on those dancing shoes. Apart from the great exercise dancing affords, it's also a very social form of exercise and the most fun you can have in heels, ladies!
Activate that attitude!
However, if you're still eyeing out the couch with its plump cushions and easy access to the TV, then Venter suggests the following to convince you and keep you on track:
Know the difference between reason and an excuse – stay away from self-negotiation tactics like, “it’s raining today so I will go to gym tomorrow”.
Set yourself a realistic goal that you would like to achieve within a reasonable time frame.
Visual reminder – when planning your schedule, log onto the gym's website to view your club's timetable and make a note of which classes you would like to attend. Stick these onto your computer monitor or fridge to remind yourself and to keep you motivated.
Scheduling exercise into your daily routine is important so make sure that you don’t make any alternative arrangements during your scheduled exercise time.
Plan ahead: when preparing for the following day, ensure that you pack your gym gear too and put it with your car keys.
Exercise buddy: by involving a friend into your workout routine, you will motivate each other to brave the winter blues. Knowing you have committed to each other will drive you to keep training.
Try something new: it's important to vary your workout routine and try something new each week.
"If you feel that you have not cheated and are on target to reaching your goals, reward yourself with a spa treatment or a night off on the couch with a cup of soup. This will motivate you to keep moving this winter," Venter advises.
Source: Fran Venter, National Fitness Manager of Virgin Active SA; Health24.com
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