As summer is fading and cold weather approaches, it is time to move our workouts back inside. It is very easy to get in to the fall/winter blues, but snap out of it! Enjoy those chilly nights on the couch, but also stay motivated to maintain what you worked your butt off for (literally) so you don’t fall off the wagon and gain the average holiday 10 lbs. Just because we trade our bathing suits for big sweaters doesn’t mean we should hibernate and take a vacation from exercise.
The winter blues is a common problem many people face during the winter months. Regular exercise causes release of endorphins, which can make you feel happier and healthier. Let’s have a different New Year’s resolution this year. Getting back in shape is not going to be on that list because you are all ready going to be in shape. Just think if you wait until after winter, you will have the pressure to be back in bathing suit shape too quickly. We have all had that feeling. So let’s stop this vicious cycle and keep the workout routine going the entire year.
If you are used to entering a gym and heading for the cardio machines first…STOP!!! Of course exercise is going to be boring if you do the same thing over and over again. Heck, I am getting bored just thinking about that. Try something new; try a class that intrigues you or speak with a trainer. Getting out of your old routine may be just the thing you are looking for to stay excited about working out. In class settings not only do you get a great workout you would never put yourself through, but you meet new people that have the same interests as you to help you stay motivated. Making new friends and having a healthy, beautiful body doesn’t seem too bad at all.
-Shannon Flanagan