You’ve worked all summer to get in shape, working towards looking your best on holiday or at the beach. Maybe you’ve set a New Year’s resolution to be a happier, healthier you. But as the weather turns and you find the sun going down by the time you leave work and you’re tempted to hit the snooze button in the morning, remember why you started and how far you’ve come. Being consistent is the key to success, so stay on track with your goals and you’ll reap the benefits in the warmer months! Here are 5 tips to stay motivated over winter. Because next summer is closer than you think.
- SWITCH UP YOUR ROUTINE
Out with the old and in with the new! Spice up your current routine with something you’ve never tried before. Don’t be stuck behind a treadmill screen this winter, attend a class or include resistance training. For men – try switching from a muscle building plan to strength, go from machines to free weights or add supersets. For women – switch from bodyweight to dumbbells, try new machines upstairs or even ditch the cardio machines for HIIT! (High Intensity Interval Training). - SET NEW GOALS
Goal setting is important when it comes to exercise, and just because the weather is turning doesn’t mean they should be put on hold! Try reaching your main goal by setting smaller goals which will help you in the long run. This can be anything from attending the gym 3 times a week to pre packing lunches and making healthy choices at gatherings. A good way to start is to note down where you currently are in terms fitness, weight and strength and making a plan which has set dates and goals that you want to smash! - STRESS LESS
Did you know that stress can lead to fat storage? Keep stress levels low and stay lean in the long run! De-stress with a cup of tea at the end of the day or try a yoga class. Exercise shouldn’t be a chore and once it becomes a healthy habit it’ll be something that you want to do. Being stress free should apply in all areas of life, appreciate the small things and don’t worry about things you can’t control. Nothing should make you stressed, angry, or unmotivated unless you give it permission. - TRY NEW FOODS / SWITCH UP YOUR NUTRITION
Winter produce may not be as exciting and colourful as summer berries, but there are still many healthy choices available. Try new flavours and combinations and stay inspired with your food during the colder months, work seasonal produce such as pomegranates, citrus fruits, purple grapes, and orange root vegetables into your meals. You’ll not only add colour to your plate, you’ll pack in some serious nutrition punch. - TRAIN WITH A PARTNER
Training with a partner will help spur you onto the next level, keep you accountable, motivate and provide healthy competition during your workout. Having someone there to help you push through your workout and keep you inspired is the best way to stay on track, workout with mates or enlist the help of a Personal Trainer! Training with a PT will be the best investment you make if you are serious about reaching your goals.
Get in touch with me if you need some help to switch up your routine this winter!
Jay Hawkins
027 828 8281 | jayhawkinspt@gmail.com