Call me crazy but winter is the best time to exercise.
Every year activity levels decrease as the temperature drops. Exercising less is a common response to colder weather and shorter days but it’s not doing your physical or mental health any favours.
Benefits of exercising in winter
An advantage of exercising in winter is the boost your immune system gets. During exercise, immune cells are circulated around the body, helping them to seek and fight off infections. By skipping your regular workouts during winter your immune system efficacy decreases resulting in an increased risk of catching a cold or virus.
The winter blues are very real, and exercise is a natural anti-depressant and mood-booster. When you exercise the brain releases a cocktail of neurotransmitters and chemicals which make you feel more positive and help reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression.
Exercising outdoors can improve your mental health further. A 2019 study in Scientific Reports reported that just two hours a week outdoors in nature can increase good health and well-being.
Exercising in winter is a great way to build up your cardiovascular fitness and endurance effectively as your heart doesn’t have to work as hard in colder temperatures. Winter workouts boost your metabolism as your body works hard to regulate your core temperature, and you sweat less, meaning more efficient workouts.
By exercising during winter, you will be several steps ahead come spring and summer when the gyms and training clubs are busy again. You’ll also be less likely to succumb to the false promises of the fitness and diet industry spring marketing campaigns.
Practical tips for exercising in winter
Colder temperatures mean your muscles will likely be cold and tight so please ensure that you allow for an extended warm up in order to avoid a muscle strain.
Wear appropriate cold weather clothing but don’t overdress so you overheat and get dehydrated! Note that colder temperatures can diminish feelings of thirst by up to forty per cent, so don’t forget to drink enough water before, during and after exercise.
Motivational tips for exercising in winter
Invest in some new workout wear and enjoy wearing it! Get dressed for exercise as quickly as possible in the morning or after work. Once you are dressed you are less likely to make excuses and more likely to feel motivated to exercise.
Commit to working out with others. You are more likely to stick to your workout plans if you are not doing it alone.
If you are struggling to stick to your routine, change it! For example, if winter mornings are too hard, exercise at lunch or after work instead. Or try a different activity. Gyms tend to be quieter in winter so it’s the perfect time of year to try a new class or book in for a gym trial.
Remember, year-round exercise is essential for good health. By exercising consistently this winter, you are setting yourself up for a fit and healthy year ahead!
