Staying Motivated During The Winter Months

QUESTION: Now that winter is fast approaching, how do I stay motivated to keep fit? ANSWER: Staying motivated for physical activity during the chilly winter months can be more challenging…

 

Staying Motivated During The Winter Months

 

QUESTION: Now that winter is fast approaching, how do I stay motivated to keep fit?

 

ANSWER: Staying motivated for physical activity during the chilly winter months can be more challenging than during warmer temperatures. So, here are a few ideas:

 

1) Always dress appropriately for the winter months.  Wearing your favorite gym shorts is not appropriate for the winter chill.

 

Try layering and find something heavy, warm, and comfortable to get you through those chilly months.

 

2) Work out during the day. Getting motivated to walk or run in the dark does not bode well. Find natural sunlight to keep you motivated. Find a time that works out for you, and stick to it.

 

3) Join a gym or a work out class. You may not want to be going outdoors during the cold months. This is the perfect opportunity for you to find a new type of class. Maybe you have always wanted to explore yoga or kickboxing. Winter is the perfect time to sign up for a class.

 

4) Find friends to work out with. What better way to get your mind off of the cold than to work out with a group of people you get along with.

 

5) Always keep the long-term benefits on your mind. Being in great shape come spring is a great thought to keep that in the back of your mind and it will be one of the most powerful thoughts to keep you motivated.

 

6) Try new winter sports. Whether it be skiing or ice skating, think of all the fun you will have.

 

SOME IDEAS FOR FAMILY WINTER OUTDOOR FUN

 

This winter season do not let your family hibernate inside – Bundle everyone up and participate in some fun activities.

There are all kinds of ways for families to enjoy the outdoors together in the winter. Here are some ideas to help get the whole family outdoors.

 

1) Head for the sledding hill

With so many sledding options, the whole family will have fun whizzing down the hill.  Families can ride together on a huge snow saucer, a foam sled, or even a magic carpet.

 

2) Build a snowman

Kids can let their imaginations run wild as they build a snowman with sunglasses, a  shawl, or even a cowboy inspired snowman.  Or, stick with tradition and create one with a  top hard, carrot nose, and the works.

 

3) Build a  snow fort

All you need is snow. Create a big mound and pack it down by stepping, jumping and even rolling on it. Once a solid, round pile has been created, make a doorway and begin tunneling into the mound. Continue to shovel snow out of the center and pack it on top. Once inside, use a smaller shovel to make a space inside. Do not forget to make windows and decorate your new fort.

 

4) Snowball fight

Create teams, a plan of attack, gather your ammunition.  After that is all done, create all your snowballs and let the fun begin.

 

 

5 QUICK STRETCHES

 

1) Heel To Buttock

Stand on one foot, with one hand on a wall for balance. Hold the other foot with the opposite hand and raise the heel of the lifted foot to the buttocks (or as close as comfortably possible), stretching your quadriceps. Keep your body upright throughout. Change legs and repeat.

 

2) Quadriceps Stretch

Kneel on your knees (without resting back on your heels). Lean back with your body erect and your arms to the side. Hold for 15 seconds.

 

3) Wall Pushup

Stand about three feet from a wall, feet at shoulder width and flat on the ground. Put your hands on the wall with your arms straight for support. Lean your hips forward and bend your knees slightly to stretch your calves.

 

4) Hip & Lower Back Stretch

Sit on the ground with your legs crossed. Lift your right leg and cross it over the left, which should remain bent. Hug the right leg to your chest and twist the trunk of your body to look over your right shoulder. Change legs and repeat (i.e. looking over your left shoulder).

 

5) Back Scratch

Grab your elbow with the opposite hand and gently push the elbow up and across your body until your hand reaches down to “scratch” your back. Gently push on your elbow to guide your hand down your back as far as it will comfortably go, stretching your triceps and shoulders. Stretch both arms.