How to Stay Fit during Weather Change
It’s that time of the year again when all you want to do is relax and binge-watch your favourite TV shows - exercise probably takes a back seat.
Whether you have been working out regularly outdoors for years or recently started a new exercise routine, the weather change can act as a dampener when it comes to finding the motivation to stick to one’s workout routine.
But it is important to put in that little extra effort to not be deterred and derail your fitness goals just because the mercury dropped.
Here are some tips to get you back on your feet and help you stick to your healthy regimen during the cooler months.
Check the weather conditions
Check the weather before heading outside. Temperature and humidity are key factors that can influence how effective your workout routine will be.
If you feel cold while working out outdoors, think about switching things up by working out at home instead.
Protect your skin from the sun
It is just as easy to get sunburnt during the cooler months as in summer. Get a sunscreen to block the harmful UVA as well as UVB rays. Additionally, you can also use lip balm with sunscreen.
But remember that there are some great benefits to exposure to sunlight as well. While the sun is less intense during the cooler months, enjoying some early hours of sunlight can boost the Vitamin D levels in your system.
Vitamin D is beneficial for the bones in maintaining and gaining strength, absorbing calcium, and keeping your immune system strong.
Wear the right workout gear
A rule of thumb to follow is to make sure that you avoid wearing cotton while working out, as cotton absorbs sweat and can make you feel colder.
Wearing bright clothes can also help you cheer up. You may need to experiment with your clothes to find the perfect combination suited to your comfort and intensity of your exercises.
Warm-up first
There is no escaping the need for an effective warmup routine. And it’s especially important to prep during the cooler months. Dynamic warm-ups increase blood flow and temperature in the muscles which helps decrease the risk of injuries.
The best dynamic warm-up for you depends on what type of workout you are doing. But for all warm-ups, be sure they include low-intensity movements that mimic the exercise you are about to perform. For instance, if you are a runner, you might want to engage in a dynamic warmup that includes squats, lunges, arm swings as well as core activation work.
Stay hydrated
You have to ensure that you stay well hydrated during the cooler months because not only do you sweat just the same as in summer, but your thirst will also decrease during this time. So your water consumption needs to be more intentional. Drink water before, during, and after your workout, and pay close attention to your thirst. You can always keep a timer on your phone or fitness tracker.
Choose the right time of the day
Consider exercising during the warmest part of the day, around lunchtime or late mornings during weekends. If you have some time to spare during your workday, you can also consider taking a brisk walk during your lunch break.
Knowing how and when to exercise during the cooler months can help you enhance your workout and make you feel energised. Stick with your exercise programme throughout the cooler months, even when you would just rather hibernate. Your body will benefit from it.