Winter Workouts – Conquering the Cold

Man, these freezing temperatures make moving around the last thing I feel like doing.  During these icy winter storms, all I really feel like doing is curling up on the couch with a blanket and hot chocolate.  With cloudy skies and cold weather, it can be difficult to find the motivation to get out from under the warm bed covers and get active.  Science has proven that an object at rest tends to stay at rest, and oppositely an object in motion tends to stay in motion.  By making that initial decision to get my body moving, I find it’s actually easier to remain in that active state.  So how do I make that happen?

I realize that working out "cheers up" my body chemistry.

• When you're physically active, your body releases natural chemicals that actually make you feel good. Neurotransmitters like endorphins, serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine help you feel relaxed and happy.
• Exercise also reduces your body's production of hormones like cortisol, which are released at high levels during chronic stress and depress the immune system.
•  Working out has a calming effect on the body. When all else is equal, the harder to exercise the calmer you'll be.

Choosing the right supplements, like multivitamins or a healthy meal replacement like Shakeology can enhance and support the effect on your body chemistry.

Move my body, change my mind.

Exercise has been proven to:

• Boost confidence: Achieving a fitness goal, no matter the size, will give you a sense of accomplishment and pride.  And it gives you the confidence to achieve other life goals.
• Burn calories: How else does the weight melt away? Getting thinner and feeling more fit is likely to put you in a better mood, and making clothes fit better would definitely cheer anyone up. 
• Redirect your focus and clear your mind: Instead of stressing about a problem or any negativity, you’ll be focusing on pushing yourself physically to get the most out of that workout.  I personally feel better about tackling any stress or problems in my life after a good workout.

How much exercise makes a difference?

I’ve been told as little as 10 to 15 minutes of activity a day can improve mood.  I’ve found, however, that 30 minutes a day, 3 to 5 days a week, is what really makes a difference, especially if I’m doing something dynamic, like running or cycling.  A single workout can jump-start the feel-good body chemicals, and motivate me to continue the workout trend. So the most important thing is getting started.

What kind of workout is best?

One I enjoy. If it's not something I like, then I’d be less likely to make the effort. For instance, I don't happen to be a fan of just lifting weights, despite its many benefits. When I work out, I opt for workouts that involve movement as well as lifting weights, such as plyometrics and circuit training.  I also love running outside (not on a treadmill), and yoga.  I also love home fitness programs, especially when the winter weather has me stuck indoors.  I started P90X a few weeks ago, and I love the diverse workouts the program includes.  Identify the activities that bring enjoyment, and get going.

The power of exercise doesn't come from fancy equipment, but from the effort I put in. If I pick something I can get into and that fits my schedule, then the barriers to beginning are lowered.   Anyone can find sources of exercise, for example:

• Turn everyday errands into workouts when you do them on foot or by bike. (Bonus points for adding a hill, or taking the long way home.)
• Check out the activities offered at your local park or community center, like swimming, basketball games, or fitness classes.
• Commit to an in-home Beachbody^® workout program that's sure to fit your schedule.

So start today. Boost your activity level and help put a smile on your face, because you don't have to wait for the sunshine to feel good.