As the weather continues to get colder and days get shorter, staying fitness-focused in winter can seem like a daunting task. We know how easy it can be to let your routine slip, especially due to the temptation of cozy blankets, a warm fireplace, and holiday treats. But, it’s important now more than ever to focus on getting those daily workouts in.
Take the winter months as an opportunity to rethink your approach to health and fitness, set realistic goals, and develop new habits that will keep you energized mentally and physically. First, let’s figure out why many of us deal with mood swings in the winter, and how this ties into the importance of sticking with a good fitness routine.
Working out in December is incredibly important because it can help prevent Seasonal Affective Disorder from setting in. Seasonal Affective Disorder, also known as SAD, can take effect as the days get shorter and the amount of sunlight we see declines. This is especially common here in Northern California, where our winter months are cold, dark, and usually rainy. This affects different people in different ways, with some noticing a drop in mood, with others feeling bouts of depression.
In an article by Results Wellness Lifestyle, author Jenny Francis states that “the lack of sunlight is thought to increase our production of melatonin,” which makes us sleepy, and “reduces our levels of serotonin, the hormone that regulates our mood and our appetite.”
The National Health Service lists exercising regularly as one of the main methods that can help prevent the hormone imbalance caused by the lack of sunlight. Exercise releases endorphins and serotonin and also reduces cortisol levels, which is the hormone that controls stress.
Keep reading to find out how you can prioritize your health and fitness in the upcoming winter months.
Tips for the Winter
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Set Realistic and Attainable Goals
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- The first step to staying fitness-focused in winter is to set realistic and attainable goals for the month. Try committing to a certain number of workouts each week, because having clear goals will help you stay on track.
- You can also put your goals in writing, making it more likely that you will remember and feel motivated to achieve your goals. There is nothing more satisfying than checking things off of your daily list.
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Stay Active
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- Many people have trouble getting used to the changing weather, losing all motivation to do outdoor workouts. If you’re used to running outdoors, consider doing indoor cardio workouts or running on a treadmill to stay out of the cold and rainy weather.
- All outdoor exercises can be substituted for indoor exercises, so don’t feel discouraged. You can always get a great workout from inside the house!
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Prioritize Nutrition
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- An article by the FitFarm Fam states that you should always “make mindful food choices.” While this can be difficult during the holiday season, just focus on keeping a balanced diet.
- It is okay to indulge every once in a while, but be sure that your body is getting all of the necessary nutrients from lean proteins, whole grains, and vegetables.
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Celebrate Achievements to Stay Motivated
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- It is important to recognize any victory, no matter how small, because they help contribute to long-term success. Keep acknowledging your progress and you will feel motivated to continue improving and prioritizing your health on a daily basis.
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Mental Health
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- Finally, staying fitness-focused in winter means taking care of your mental health as well. Activities like meditation, mindfulness practices, or even simple relaxation can help reduce stress and improve mental clarity.
- A positive mental outlook can make all the difference in staying motivated and committed to your health goals.
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Keeping Your Focus at Body Balance
As the winter months bring colder weather and shorter days, it can be harder to stay motivated and committed to your fitness goals. But you don’t have to face the winter slump alone. Body Balance Pleasanton is here to help you stay on track and make this season your healthiest yet.
Whether you’re looking for personalized training, small group bootcamps, or partner workouts, let Body Balance Pleasanton be your supportive community so you can stay active and inspired throughout the winter months.
Staying fitness-focused in winter is all about adapting to the season and staying consistent to continue making progress. Whether you’re trying to stay fit, improve your strength, or simply keep moving during winter, we will help you stay focused, energized, and on track all season long.
By setting realistic goals, embracing indoor workouts, prioritizing nutrition, celebrating your progress, and nurturing your mental health, you’ll be able to maintain a healthy, active lifestyle all winter long. Don’t let the season slow you down—use it as an opportunity to build habits that will serve you for the entirety of the New Year!
Francis, Jenny. “Why November Is the Most Important Month to Workout.” Results Wellness Lifestyle, 18 Oct. 2021, app.rwl.fitness/magazine/fitness/exercise-and-workouts/november-best-month-to-exercise.
Amanda. “Tips for Focusing on Your Health and Fitness in November.” The FitFarm Fam, The FitFarm Fam, 1 Nov. 2023, www.thefitfarmfam.com/post/november-tips-to-focus-on-health.
