Baby, it's cold outside.. or how to stay motivated in winter
"Today i will do what others won't, so tomorrow i can do what others can't"
This quote means a lot to me because i've been on both sides of it. I know how hard it is to push yourself in winter, when it's cold and dark outside. The idea of just walking to the gym seems too much effort and staying on the couch wrapped in a blanket like a burrito seems like the way to be. It's the time of hibernation and movies in bed.
Don't worry you are not alone in this! I've put some ideas of how to keep yourself motivated during this dark time of year.
Invest in the good sports wear
As one wise man once said "There is no such thing as bad weather, there are just bad clothing choices." If you love jogging and workout outdoors then you should probably invest in some good quality winter active wear. I mean like thermal leggings, gloves, headbands. This makes outdoor training so much more comfortable and reduces the risk of catching a chill!
And it's not just if you're training outside. Even if you're just in the gym, get yourself some new workout gear, new trousers, t-shit or shoes. I personally find it really motivating, whenever I buy myself new gym wear, I just can't wait to try it out and show off at the gym!
Have a goal and plan the path towards it
Just as the most thing, setting out a plan to your goals is a great way to stay motivated. Instead of waiting and basing your plan on New Year's resolutions, start now and set those goals for you, for better and stronger self. Once the goals are set, create a plan to get there even if it's just adding the workouts into your calendar - this will give those sessions more importance.
Buddy up!
I find it to be one of the most effective ways to get your ass to the gym. Get yourself a workout buddy, so you could motivate each other and push yourselves towards your goals! You'll be far less inclined to cancel a workout if you're letting someone else down too. It could also encourage you to try new things, because let's face it, turning up to a brand new exercise class or activity can be quite intimidating on your own.
Personally, i find workouts even more effective when i do them together with my boyfriend. I realized, there's less time for procrastination when we do it together. One of us rests, while other one does the exercise, and i can observe and fix his form while he is on it. The rest period becomes shorter, because you won't be checking facebook or instagram, but actually focus on a workout, meaning the workout is gonna be more intense and more effective on your body!
And of course, it's a perfect opportunity to try out my new program on him!
Eat healthy!
The cold months make us more receptive to craving sugary and fatty, unhealthy foods. I know that as i have them not only in winter, but anytime, because i just love food in general. Only a thought of a big juicy burrito, cheesy pizza or greasy chinese makes my mouth water. Mmm... a burrito.. Stop, it Rad! You're here to talk about nutritious food and motivate people to eat healthier! Anyway, the main thing is to avoid any slumps by being prepared - establish a routine of eating healthy meals regularly. In order to do that, it's best to do weeks shopping at once, then you will plan out your meals and avoid going off the track by accidentally buying a pizza.
Charge yourself with vitamins
Winter drags many of us down - it sucks up our energy, cause joint inflammation and pain, leaves us with the sniffles, seasonal flu and feeling blue in general.
However, many of these common winter ailments are cause by vitamin or mineral deficiencies. That's why topping up our shelves with following 6 essential vitamins can bring you back to life!
1. Vitamin C. It is necessary to take regular vitamin C supplements to support body tissue growth, strong bones and teeth and ward off winter influenza.
2. Iron. A body that is low in iron can really feel sluggish in winter. Iron supplements help you to boost energy levels, encourage fresh blood oxygen delivery to the lungs, brain, muscles and cells.
3. Vitamin A. If you're already iron deficient, chances are you vitamin A stores are depleted as well. It gives the glow back in dull winter skin and keeps your bones strong in case of a slip or fall in nasty winter conditions.
4. Vitamin D. As the days are shorter and the nights - longer, it can be bad news for the vitamin D, since it is only absorbed when the body is exposed to the sunlight. Without vitamin D, body can't absorb calcium and stimulate certain immune responses that protect us from the clods and infections.
5. Vitamin E. In winter you might suffer from seasonal dry skin, nails and hair, caused bu vitamin E deficiency. This moisturizing antioxidant infuses the skin with moisture and soothes red, itchy, flaky skin and brittle hair and nails against free radical damage such as psoriasis and dandruff.
6. Vitamins B. This group of vitamins are responsible for converting carbohydrates into energy to help metabolize fats and proteins for fuel. That's why supplementing with Bs (particularly vitamin B12) can fight the feelings of depression, holiday anxiety and general sadness.
So now you know! Just few simple steps towards getting yourself off to a great start even if there's chilly outside. From a little couch burrito to an energized slim dorito!
