Staying Physically Active and Maintaining a Healthy Routine in Cold Winter
Some proven tips to ensure physical and mental activity in winter.
I guess you did not exercise this morning as well, you had planned not to procrastinate yesterday. But it is good that you are searching for tips to stay physically and mentally fit in winter, right? It means you are trying to keep yourself fit at least.
I also guess, you do not drink a sufficient quantity of water this winter, guessed accurately again, right? According to research, only 13% of adults in America drink more than seven glasses of water which is less than the recommended water daily.
So, how many glasses of water did you drink today, whether you are in the USA or elsewhere?
One, two, three, or zero.
You might be surprised why I am asking this odd question.
I am asking, because it is winter in Pakistan as well. In winter, we usually do not drink plenty of water nor do we exercise. It seems difficult in cold weather but I do drink enough water, and work to maintain blood flow. How?
Today, I am writing to share with you how I keep myself physically fit, and maintain a healthy routine in the colder winter.
Being, a full-time freelance writer gives routine flexibility but when you are too successful and have a lot of tasks on the table, you might lose the balance between work and life. Therefore, focus on your work-life balance and improve your mental and physical health.
In this blog, I’ll share five tips based on my own experience to help you keep moving and stay on track with your fitness goals, even when it’s chilly outside.
Physical and Mental Fitness in Winter: 5 Proven Tips
Physical exercise should be an unavoidable part of our daily routine regardless of any weather condition. However, its importance increases in winter when our bodies contract. The following tips or activities can help you stay physically and mentally healthy in winter:
Tip # 1. Arrange Indoor Physical Activities
If there is a gym nearer your residence, that is well and good. Do join the gym and continue your workout. If not, a few minutes of push-ups can make you feel better. But remember, you should consistently do your indoor exercise.
Gyms, fitness classes, and home workouts offer a cozy and controlled environment to keep you moving. Further, you can also engage yourself in indoor activities like yoga, to keep your routine fresh and exciting.
If you have resources and enough space at home, you can purchase in-home exercise equipment, such as dumbbells or resistance bands, for effective at-home workouts. Never skip your fitness routine making cold weather a lame excuse.
Tip #2: Dress Properly and Get Outdoors
If you do not arrange for indoor physical activities, go outdoors. Some people do not feel too much cold in winter like my friend Kaleem does. If you have a stronger stamina against cold weather then enjoy outdoor activities. However, it is essential to dress appropriately.
A cloth mask is necessary to help you keep your face warm and comfortable during your outdoor workouts. Do not forget to wear a hat, gloves, and thermal socks to protect your extremities from the cold. With the proper preparation, you can still enjoy activities like hiking, jogging, or even winter sports like skiing and snowshoeing. I prefer jogging the most.
Tip #3: Set Realistic Fitness Goals
Whether you exercise indoors or outdoors set realistic fitness goals. Achievable goals motivate us and help us assess our improvement in terms of health.
We have set one and a half hours for daily exercise. This exercise includes jogging, stretching, and playing badminton. First, we start with two-round jogging around the football ground in Peshawar University and then start sketching and in the last part of the exercise, we play badminton turn by turn. The fitness results are visible in our mood and body.
During the colder months, shorter days can make it challenging to maintain the same level of activity as in the warmer months. So keep adjusting your expectations and focus on consistency rather than intensity. Maybe you can’t run as far or fast, but you can still progress by sticking to a routine. Set smaller, attainable goals and celebrate your accomplishments along the way to stay motivated.
Tip #4: Find a Workout Partner
Approximately 44% of gym-goers prefer working out with a partner, according to statistics compiled by GymBird in 2023. In winter, especially, you can feel motivated with your workout partner. When you have someone to share your fitness journey with, it becomes more enjoyable and accountable. Plan workout sessions together and encourage each other to continue working out. Having someone by your side can make those chilly workouts or jogging seem much more appealing.
Tip #5: Drink Plenty of Water
Keeping hydrated ensures that your body functions are supported and running. If you cannot do all the above-mentioned activities for any reason, you can at least plenty of water and move slightly at home. In your bedroom, you can have a slight exercise and feel good. But, you are advised to move anyway and should be at the dining table with a desire to eat well; on an empty stomach. Remember, if you do not feel a craving for eating in winter, it means you are not moving enough.
In conclusion, staying physically active leads to a healthy mind. Specially, in the colder months, it is even more beneficial for your overall health and well-being. By embracing indoor workouts, dressing appropriately for outdoor activities, setting realistic goals, finding a workout partner, and at least drinking plenty of water, you can maintain a healthy routine throughout winter. Don’t let the chilly weather be an excuse to hibernate — stay active, stay energized, and keep moving towards your fitness goals. Your body will thank you for it.
