Try These Easy Winter Workout Strategies

Christmas is almost here and there is lots to do, and of course, lots to eat. Amidst this craziness is the special feeling that the season brings us. Unfortunately, the season also comes with the opportunity to put off your fitness program. After all, when it gets cold and you find yourself inside much more often, your overall activity level can drop off tremendously. This, in combination with all of the food, can be a recipe for lots of weight gain during the Holidays and Winter Months. The average person gains 5-10 pounds around the holidays.

Here are 4 Strategies to help keep you fit this winter:

1. Shift your workouts inside gradually. Yes, it's already December, and this strategy works better if you start in the fall, but it still applies, because let's face it, January and February will likely bring even colder weather. Starting now, find ways to exercise inside. Shift an increasing number of workouts indoors over time so that by the time the really cold weather hits, you've got a new plan in place for physical activity and exercise.

Also, since it is better to start this strategy in October instead of December, another strategy would be to embrace some type of new challenge that you have not yet tried or that you have not spent time doing lately. For example, Winter can bring an excellent opportunity to focus on your Yoga or Pilates practice. The improved core strength and flexibility will give you a head start into your outdoor activities in the Spring.

2. Workout outside at least once per week. It's hard to get enough fresh air in the winter time. Try a brisk walk for 15 - 30 minutes outside during your lunch break or first thing in the morning. You will be surprised by how much this invigorates you.

3. Try a New Winter Sport Every Two Weeks. Christmas is coming...ask someone to buy you a pair of cross-country skiis or snow-shoes and get out there an learn how to use them. Then, keep trying new winter sports every 2-4 weeks. There is nothing better than a night time skate down at your local park. Under the lights and on a relatively calm night this can really help you learn to embrace the winter. Call me. I'll join you if I have the kids in bed on time.

4. Shovel your neighbor's walk too. I hear a lot of people complain about all of the snow. But the truth is, snow presents many excellent opportunities to get additional exercise. Yes, I own a snow blower, but I still shovel as much as I can because I love the exercise it provides. When I'm done with my house, I take care of the neighbor's as well. It does her a big favor and of course, let's me burn that much more energy and extra calories. Then I don't have to worry so much about that extra cookie or two I might have later in the day.

In addition to shoveling snow, sledding is also another excellent way to have a good laugh and work the body. Sixty minutes of walking up and down a big hill in big boots and through thick snow might be the best workout you've had in quite some time.

Good luck and I would love to here your stories about what you might be doing to stay fit this winter.

We also still have room in Group Fitness. Got to: www.NomadGroupFitness.com to reserve your spot.

Take care,
John

http://www.TheFitnessNomad.com

_____________________
The Fitness Nomad
John Ashworth, Owner
www.TheFitnessNomad.com