5 ways to stay in shape this winter
If you're like many Canadians, you
spend the summer eating more healthfully and being more active, only to gain
a few pounds over the winter. Why not make this the year you break the pattern?
With a little planning now, you can weather the winter in the best shape ever.
By trying out even one of these ideas,
you could see and feel a difference. For best results, follow all five, and
you could emerge from winter hibernation feeling as fit and fresh as you do
now.
1. Set your benchmark.
Establish a baseline so you can track your starting point. Write down your current
weight, measurements and clothing size now on your calendar. Check in every
week or two, to make sure you are on track. It's easier to keep the situation
in check if there's only a small change to correct. If you notice your weight
has crept up a couple of pounds, try walking the stairs at work every day or
add an extra 15 minutes onto your fitness routine.
2. Grab a buddy.
Enlist the support of a like-minded friend, colleague or family member. You'll
provide emotional support for each other and exchange new ideas and strategies.
Make a date to meet once a week to walk, swim, ski or cycle — you're more
likely to honour your workout commitments when someone else is depending on
you.
3. Book a class.
Signing up for an exercise class helps ensure you continue to do something active
throughout the winter. You may also find that working out in a group is more
challenging than exercising alone, so you get more from the sessions. Booking
now, while your motivation is high, helps guarantee that you will act on your
good intentions — and you'll avoid the New Year's rush. Choose an activity
you know you enjoy, or try something completely new to help shake the winter
doldrums.
4. Have a backup.
Despite the best of intentions, our climate can keep us housebound. Set up a
home gym, so that you won't be deterred by inclement weather. Start by finding
some home workouts that are a suitable fitness level, so that you have some
routines prepared. Then gather the equipment. It could be as simple as a mat,
some dumbbells (or substitute household items), resistance bands, a jump rope,
step platform (or a flight of stairs). Keep it all in one place so it's ready
to go.
5. Enter an event.
It's a lot more fun to have a purpose beyond simple maintenance. Consider aiming
toward participating in a spring athletic event such as a five-kilometre race,
a walkathon, or even dragon-boat racing. Working toward an event will help you
shift your focus away from your weight and can increase your commitment to fitness.