Monique Rana - Winter Motivation Workout Tips

More often than not, the early colder mornings have our beds enticing us to lie in for just ‘little bit longer!’ But how often does that little longer end up being a ‘whole lot longer – which means no exercise?’ Well just to remind you, after winter comes spring, then summer. And if a beach body is what you are after, they are made during the winter months not the start of summer.

It’s too dark and cold to exercise before work! Have your workout gear at your bedside so you almost trip over it getting out of bed. This will save precious minutes running around looking for clothes while the rest of the family is sleeping. This way, you’ll have no excuse. Preparation is paramount to successful workouts whatever the weather.

Train for an event. There is nothing like having a short-term goal to work towards to keep you focused and on track with your training. Whether you train for a walking or running event this is great to keep you moving in the colder months. Check out Marathon/Fun run walk events here in New Zealand to keep you on the winter fit path!

Move it with music. Feeling a little low and need some external motivation to get your heart pumping and body moving even on the dreariest days. Create your own invigorating music playlist. This way no matter how you feel, just put your iPod on and feel the beats to move your feet.

Exercise indoors. Join a gym that has Certified Fitness Trainers that will help you with your fitness goals throughout the winter months. If fat loss is one of your goals, then you need to regain lost muscle tissue. The most effective way to do this is through strength training with weights. Remember the more muscle you have, the higher your metabolic rate, therefore more fat you will burn throughout the day.

Try a small group exercise class: like SPIN, Yoga, Pilates or HIIT Class, dance class, hip-hop or boxing. These Instructors will not only teach you but also push you to get the most out of your workout, while increasing your heart rate, which in return will release the ‘feel good endorphins’ in your brain. Not only is exercise great for the body, but great for your mental wellbeing.

On a final note, if you are exercising outdoors during the day, it’s important to protect your skin to the harsh winter elements. Wear sunscreen, especially if you exercise near snow, which reflects sunlight. Even though the sun isn't beating down on you with heat, it can still cause sunburn.