Keeping motivated to exercise over the winter
Exercising is one of those things that we know we need to do all year round, but always seems to get more focus in the season leading up to the summer holidays.
So now the nights have got darker and our thoughts have officially turned to pie and gravy rather than Pilates, we thought we’d share our top five tips to keep motivated before the energy to keep on hitting the gym totally ebbs away!
Get yourself some new gear
It might sound a bit daft, but some new threads for the gym or some top notch trainers can really make a difference when it comes to feeling good about yourself when you’re exercising. Pulling on the same old tired tracksuit or paint stained shorts you wore to touch up the patio decking over the summer will hardly get you inspired to start star jumping.
Set achievable goals
If you’re like us, there’s no way you’re going to be running to work in the pouring rain or training for a marathon when it’s minus five outside. So be kind to yourself and set achievable goals. A couple of Zumba classes a week is better than being parked in front of the TV permanently. If you make your exercise regime miserable then you won’t stick to it.
Switch up your routine
Whether it’s doing a dance class or trying out trampolining, throwing in something different is a great way to take a break from the norm and experience something new. Swimming is a great form of exercise and a way to set yourself up for the day feeling refreshed and revitalised.
Treat yourself
Just as important as exercising is showing your body a little TLC. So book yourself in for a massage or facial every now and again. After all, the best way to alleviate any aches in muscles is by letting somebody else take away a little bit of the strain. Plus it’s a great way to celebrate any personal training goals you’ve achieved.
Get a training partner
But make sure they’re as committed as you are to keeping fit. Someone to go to classes with and work alongside can be a great motivator to keep you on a healthy straight and narrow. However, if you know you’re both likely to pop in the pub to share a bottle of Prosecco after doing aerobics then it might be a bit counterproductive!
Go mobile!
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