- Sign up for a winter race. There are plenty of races during the winter months. Do a search in your area and sign up for one to keep you motivated during the holidays. I told myself that my season would be over after my Half Ironman a few weeks ago. Well guess what? I lied ok not lied just couldn't stay away from training. I signed up for a 15K in Phoenix the first week of December. There are times when I would like to skip running but the voice inside my head keeps saying: "that 15K isn't going to run itself!"
- Don't skip going outside, bundle up. Yes it might be cold outside but sometimes that makes it more fun. Last winter I experienced mountain biking in the snow. It wasn't something I intended to do but I had fun and would love to snow bike again. And what a great workout it was! I also make a mental note to myself the running trails in my area that do not have shade. Those naturally were the trails I avoided in June, July and August. But those sun-exposed trails will make for some great winter running.I'll find less snow on those routes and the sunshine will warm me up.
- Buy some winter workout clothes. Now is the time to treat yourself to some cold weather workout attire. Being warm makes all the difference and cold weather running gear sure does help. It doesn't have to be an entire wardrobe, start with a pair of running gloves or a beanie made to wick sweat.
- Go outside and play with your kids. My kids love to shovel the driveway and go sledding on the few snow days we have a year. I find that it's a lot more fun when we all get outside together. Go ahead have a snowball fight or make a silly snowman. Just get outside and play!
- Take it indoors. Ok so if you really can't get outside then take the exercise indoors. Find a local mall and walk around indoors. Our major mall opens early just for people to do this. Does your gym have an indoor track? What about an indoor heated pool? You can still get plenty of exercise by swimming laps in a nice heated pool. And if you don't belong to a gym maybe the winter months is the perfect time to sign-up.
As you can see these are just a few things that will keep you active this winter. One thing that is really important is to get plenty of sleep each night. Seasonal affective disorder or SAD (a type of depression that is related to seasons) is very real and effects many people. Without enough sleep at night and too little exercise this disorder will take it all out of you. So it is important to stay healthy this winter.
What are some tips you have about staying active during the winter?
What are some tips you have about staying active during the winter?
