Four Simple Tips to Keep Training throughout the Winter:
It's always a struggle to stay motivated to train throughout the icy winter months, so here are some tips and systems to put in place now, before the short, chilly days tempt you into a sluggish (and fattening) hibernation!
1. Make it a threesome!
A training trio! A group of three training partners committed to train together throughout the winter months at specific times. Three workout partners are usually better than two,as it is likely that at least two of you will be able to make it to training on any given day. If however, there are only two partners in the training pact, and one person has a conflicting appointment, or succumbs to the flu, it becomes easy for both of you to skip training altogether. A group of three partners ensures uninterrupted training, unscathed by any one person's absence!
2. Join a group excercise class or hire a trainer
Group exercise classes can be a great way of keeping yourself on "the straight and narrow" particularly when you're not overly-motivated! Consistency is one of the key components to success on any exercise program, whether you're training for an event or simply wishing to cut bodyfat. If you're relatively serious about your sport, a sport-specific class is preferable,such as a structured, professional spinning class for cyclists. However, there are many different types of classes that offer tremendous value in terms of cross-training,whether you are competitive or not. For example, a Russian Kettlebell class will offer you significant overall strength and fitness, as well as tremendous core stability! Classes such as Pilates, Step Aerobics or "Boot Camp" each will offer you various training benefits as well as keeping you in the routine of exercising regularly,especially when it's too chilly to train outdoors!
Although often more costly, hiring a personal trainer or coach over the winter months helps ensure that you remain consistent: Since you're paying per hour and you know they're waiting for you, you're more likely to role out of bed and into your training gear than to hit the snooze button!
3. Set up training space at home!
Have an alternative place to train: In case you cannot make it to your regular workout spot, claim some clean, uncluttered and welcoming space in your home, don't banish yourself to some dark, dusty corner of the (cold) basement or garage, inbetween the cars and grease! Set up your equipment in the comfort of your study, spare room or TV lounge, a place where you want to go and train. Include a heater (or fan), have good lighting and air, a TV and DVD player for entertainment or training DVDs. Leave the equipment set up and "ready-to-go" for a workout at any time of day (or night) ,don’t pack it away! The easier it is for you to physically get to the equipment, the more likely you will stick to your training routine!
4. Set a concrete goal for early spring (not summer)
If you're like most people, you don't have a concrete training goal to "ignite your flame" and keep you focused throughout winter : Most people have the intention to train through the cold winter months, but this is easily blown away by the first chilly spell,or casual sniffles! A sporting event or goal set for early spring will keep you training and/or will get you back on track when you’ve unavoidably had to take time off! If you're a cyclist, choose an event that takes place earlier than the 94.7 or join a mountain bike group, there are loads of fun events to take part in! If you’re a runner, don't wait until January before you get training again after the Comrades, try out new activities! Trail running or mini-triathlons or join a belly dancing or martial arts class!
If you want to lose weight, set a goal to be in your best shape by the first official day of spring: 1st September : Once you’re in shape, it's easy to maintain! And you will be able to wear that fabulous new dress in October/ November for the office Christmas party– this is infinitely easier than putting yourself through the stress of crash,dieting and the (fruitless) attempts of trying to get into shape at the last minute…